Britain Holds Talks on Joining EU's €90 Billion Loan Package for Ukraine

Britain plans to start negotiations to join the European Union's €90 billion loan scheme for Ukraine, aimed at providing military and financial support. The announcement highlights intentions to bolster defense ties and secure opportunities for British firms.

Multiple sources confirmed the talks will be discussed at a summit in Armenia. The loan, equivalent to about £78 billion, is set to fund Ukraine's defense needs with two-thirds allocated to military equipment and the rest for financial aid. EU leaders approved the deal last month after Hungary lifted its veto.

British officials stated the participation would help Ukraine while driving jobs and investment in Britain.

Starmer met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in Yerevan on Sunday, reaffirming support for Ukraine. The leaders agreed to enhance defense-industrial collaboration. Zelenskiy expressed gratitude for Britain's role since the war began and mentioned appreciation for strong words of support from King Charles during a recent U.S. visit.

The European Political Community, initiated by French President Emmanuel Macron, convenes twice yearly to address shared European challenges. British officials emphasized that joining the loan scheme aligns with national interests, including security and economic stability.

Further UK sanctions on Russian companies are expected this week to disrupt military supply chains. Leaders at the summit also addressed U.S. Britain and France have led initiatives for maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, aiming to de-mine and reopen the channel post-conflict.

The summit represents a show of Western support for Armenia amid its efforts to distance from Russia. Discussions cover responses to conflicts in Ukraine and Iran, which have raised energy costs and disrupted global shipping. Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Taras Kachka described the EU loan as a matter of life and death for Ukraine.