French Veto Threatens EU Defense Deal, Sparking UK-Germany Clash
France is leveraging upcoming negotiations on a U.K.-EU defense deal to secure improved fishing access. This is occurring within the context of the proposed €150 billion SAFE loan plan for defense spending, which faces disagreements over the inclusion of non-EU partners like the U.K., Canada, and the U.S. While some member states advocate for broader participation in joint procurement, France’s opposition currently limits this to specific EU partners and associated countries. The resulting tension highlights the complex interplay between defense cooperation and other bilateral negotiations within the EU.
John Q. Hosedrinker