The United Kingdom wants closer defense ties with the EU

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said his government would consider applying for a second European Union (EU) fund worth several billion euros for defense projects as his ministers prepare for talks with their EU counterparts this week.

The European Commission is considering launching a second edition of its SAFE loan program as Europe seeks to strengthen its defenses amid growing concerns about Russia and doubts about US security commitments to Europe under President Donald Trump.

Britain's plan to join the original €150 billion ($177 billion) SAFE fund failed in November when Starmer's government refused to pay the financial contribution to join, posing an obstacle to restoring relations after Brexit.

When asked whether Britain would seek to join the new version of SAFE, Starmer replied that Europe must do more to rearm.

(reuters)