UK and EU Hit Reset: What’s Changing in the New Agreement

The UK and EU have taken a major step toward refreshing their post-Brexit relationship. At a summit in London, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen outlined a new chapter in cooperation—covering everything from defence to food exports. Here's a breakdown of the key changes:

🛡️ Defence and Security

The two sides will now hold biannual foreign and security policy dialogues, with the UK receiving regular invitations to high-level EU meetings, including European Councils.

There will also be:

• An annual UK-EU defence dialogue

• Potential UK involvement in EU crisis response exercises

• Joint training programmes at UK and EU defence colleges

• Closer cooperation on cybersecurity, space, and tackling so-called “shadow fleets” used to sidestep sanctions

If the UK signs a specific third-country agreement, it may also participate in the EU’s €150 billion arms support fund.

🐟 Fisheries

A new 12-year agreement will extend access for EU fishing vessels in UK waters through 2038. EU boats will still be able to operate within the UK’s 6–12 mile coastal zone, based on catch levels from 2012–2016. It’s a continuation, but with a long-term guarantee.

🥩 Agrifood and Veterinary Rules

Both parties aim to streamline trade in plant and animal products. The goal is to eliminate most checks and certificates for EU-bound UK agrifood exports, provided the UK agrees to dynamically align with EU rules.

Disputes will be handled through independent arbitration, although EU law questions remain under the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice. The UK will also contribute financially to the agreement’s implementation.

🎓 Youth Mobility, Business Visas, and Artists

There’s agreement to develop a youth mobility scheme for 18–30-year-olds, allowing easier work and travel between the UK and EU. The plan will include:

• Time-limited stays

• A dedicated visa route

• A mutually agreed cap on numbers

Talks will also continue on:

• UK’s potential return to Erasmus+

• Easing business visa processes

• Mutual recognition of professional qualifications

Artists can expect continued EU support, though a special touring arrangement for UK performers wasn’t approved.

Bonus: the EU confirmed there will be no legal barriers for UK citizens to use e-gates when its new visa waiver system launches.

⚡ Energy and Climate

The UK and EU are considering reconnecting their emissions trading systems, which could exempt the UK from the EU’s carbon border tax, set to launch in January 2026.

Rejoining the EU’s internal energy market is also on the table. In both cases, the UK would need to follow relevant EU regulations and make a financial contribution.

🕵️ Security and Border Cooperation

Efforts are underway to finalise cooperation with Europol, with renewed focus on:

• Sharing intelligence on terrorism and serious crime

• Tackling irregular migration and people smuggling

• Exchanging DNA, fingerprint, and vehicle data more efficiently

• Sharing best practices on returns of irregular migrants

Final Thoughts

While Brexit is still a reality, this “reset” shows a clear intent on both sides to rebuild trust and boost collaboration where it matters. It's not a full reunion, but it’s certainly a well-scripted sequel.