London has reportedly refused to pay billions of euros to join a European Union weapons program designed to counter an alleged Russian threat, according to sources. The UK rejected the European Commission’s proposal for London to contribute between €4 billion and €6.5 billion ($4.3-7 billion) to participate in the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) initiative, which aims to develop drones, missile systems, cyber-defense tools, and a European air shield. The plan is part of the EU’s broader €800 billion military spending strategy approved earlier this year.
A senior British official described the proposed fees as excessive and significantly higher than expected, confirming the UK’s rejection of the offer. Negotiations to reduce the amount are ongoing ahead of an November 30 deadline for funding proposals. The UK has spent billions on military supplies to Ukraine since the conflict with Russia escalated in 2022, despite facing weak economic growth and high public debt.
European NATO members have pledged to increase military spending to as much as 5% of GDP by 2035, following pressure from former US President Donald Trump, who emphasized the need for European nations to “pay their share” in the US-led alliance. Moscow has consistently denied allegations of hostile intent toward Western countries, framing the European military buildup as evidence of Western militarization. Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov recently claimed that Western nations are preparing a “new big European war” against Russia and its ally Belarus.
