Bloomberg: UK, EU edge closer to post-Brexit deal amid tensions over mobility and defence

Brussels and London are moving toward finalising a new agreement aimed at resetting relations following Brexit, though talks remain tense over issues such as youth mobility, defence cooperation, and artist travel rights.

Negotiations, which are expected to reach a conclusion by summit, have intensified in recent days, with both sides pushing for last-minute changes. While the EU is keen to rebuild ties with Britain, especially on security matters, it remains cautious about offering benefits without broader commitments — particularly on the free movement of people, as per an article by Bloomberg.

A key point of friction has been the UK’s proposal to explore a youth exchange scheme. The EU has expressed disappointment, preferring instead a clearer commitment from London to rejoin the Erasmus+ program. Without such a move, EU officials have been reluctant to approve provisions on easing travel restrictions for British artists and expanding the use of fast-track e-gates for UK citizens across Europe.

Britain, in turn, is seeking greater assurances that its defence industry will be allowed access to the EU’s defence fund — a sticking point as both sides work toward a broader security and defence pact. UK Defence Secretary John Healey acknowledged the difficulty of the talks, describing them as the "toughest stage" in efforts to secure closer cooperation.

The outcome of these negotiations is politically sensitive for Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has faced mounting pressure from the right-wing Reform UK party led by Brexit campaigner Nigel Farage. Starmer, who once championed free movement as Labour leader, recently adopted a tougher stance on migration, emphasising border control while seeking new economic and diplomatic arrangements.

Despite unresolved issues, Cabinet Office Minister Nick Thomas-Symonds expressed optimism on May 18, saying negotiations were "in the very final hours" and stressing the government’s aim to deliver a deal that supports British jobs, enhances border security, and lowers household bills.

The new post-Brexit agreement is expected to include frameworks for cooperation on security, trade, and youth exchanges, but its full scope and level of detail will depend on whether compromises are reached before the summit's conclusion.

By Khagan Isayev