U.K.-E.U. Summit: What to Know as Officials Gather to Talk Defense, Trade and More

Top officials from the European Union and Britain are gathering in London on Monday, as the two allies pivot toward a post-Brexit future.

The gathering has been billed as a major reset of relations, and it is being especially closely watched given the context: Both Europeans and the British are trying to figure out how to reorient themselves in a world where America is a less reliable ally on defense and trade.

Officials are expected to unveil a defense and security partnership, which could set out the broad contours of their future military cooperation. They are also expected to discuss matters related to trade, while committing to collaboration on other geopolitical issues.

Here’s what to watch as the two sides meet.

Who is meeting?

Keir Starmer, the prime minister of the United Kingdom, will host Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission president, and Antonio Costa, the European Council president, as well as Kaja Kallas, the E.U.’s top diplomat, and Maros Sefcovic, the bloc’s top trade official. The event is expected to take place at Lancaster House in London.

What will they announce?

Officials are expected to announce a new defense agreement, which would be the biggest outcome of the summit. Policymakers on both sides have been negotiating for weeks on the plans, which are expected to set a future tone for relations at a critical moment, as Russia’s war in Ukraine grinds on and as the United States urges European nations to ramp up their own military spending and shoulder a greater responsibility for their own security.

This could lay the groundwork for Britain to eventually become part of European defense efforts, including a 150 billion euro loan program meant to help with joint procurement and investment. That plan is limited to E.U. nations and select allies, and Britain has been eager to take part.