Keir Starmer Agrees to Deploy British Troops Under EU Command in Explosive Brexit Defence Deal Shake-Up

A leaked document has revealed that the UK is preparing to enter into a major new defence agreement with the European Union, which could result in British soldiers being sent to join EU military and civilian missions. The draft of this agreement, which has been marked as “classified and sensitive,” outlines the terms of a new UK-EU defence and security partnership. The negotiations for this deal are set to take place on May 19 in London.

According to the draft, Prime Minister Keir Starmer will be expected to agree that the UK will consider sending British troops to take part in EU-led missions if invited. This move would mark a significant shift in the UK’s post-Brexit relationship with Europe, as it could involve UK forces directly supporting EU military operations abroad.

The main goal of this agreement is to allow the UK to take part in the EU’s new “Security Action for Europe” fund, also known as SAFE. This is a massive rearmament programme aimed at boosting Europe’s military strength, with plans to raise at least £127 billion to buy weapons and defence equipment. In return for joining the partnership, UK defence companies would become eligible to bid for lucrative contracts within the EU’s defence market.

The push for increased defence spending comes after pressure from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who criticised European countries for not investing enough in their own security. As a result, the EU is now moving quickly to strengthen its military capabilities.

To take part in SAFE, countries outside the EU—such as the UK—must first agree to a formal security and defence partnership. The leaked draft, prepared by the EU’s top foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, outlines not just military cooperation, but also plans for intelligence sharing, conflict prevention strategies, and stronger coordination on global security challenges.

However, the document has already raised concerns and criticism back in the UK. One key issue is that the agreement reportedly includes no mention of illegal migration or people-smuggling—areas that many in Britain see as urgent priorities. Adding to the controversy, the draft also states that the UK would have to allow EU fishing boats to continue operating in British waters for the next three years, without any clear benefits in return.

Despite this, the UK government appears eager to join the agreement. Foreign Secretary David Lammy said during a recent meeting with EU officials in Poland that he is pleased to be negotiating this partnership. He confirmed that the UK is open to taking part in both civilian and military operations led by the EU, provided there is an official invitation.

Critics argue that Starmer’s government is giving away too much, especially in areas like coastal fishing rights, without securing solid gains for the UK. Supporters say this deal could bring new opportunities for the British defence industry and help re-establish strong ties with Europe at a time of growing global instability.

As the talks in London draw near, this developing story is likely to trigger further political debate over the UK’s role on the world stage and how far it should go in rebuilding defence ties with the EU after Brexit.