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Germany, UK to sign mutual assistance defence pact, reports Politico

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on July 2, 2025

1 min read

· Last updated: January 23, 2026

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Germany, UK to sign mutual assistance defence pact, reports Politico
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BERLIN (Reuters) -Germany and Britain will sign a defence treaty which includes a mutual assistance clause in the event of a threat to either country on July 17, the Politico news outlet reported on

Germany and UK Set to Formalize Defence Pact with Mutual Assistance Clause

BERLIN (Reuters) -Germany and Britain will sign a defence treaty which includes a mutual assistance clause in the event of a threat to either country on July 17, the Politico news outlet reported on Wednesday.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and former German Chancellor Olaf Scholz had made a joint declaration in August, promising closer cooperation on issues from trade to security.

The broad agreement is being finalised, according to Politico, and a key area is defence.

It will include a section stating that any strategic threat to one country would represent a threat to the other and the agreement is expected to be signed on July 17, it reported, citing two London-based officials.

Although both countries are committed to NATO, the defence agreement highlights a shift among European states, including Germany under Chancellor Friedrich Merz, to work more closely together and rely less on the U.S. under President Donald Trump.

Neither the German defence ministry nor the chancellor's office was immediately available for comment.

(Reporting by Sabine Siebold and Markus WacketWriting by Madeline ChambersEditing by Rachel More)

Key Takeaways

  • Germany and UK to sign a defence treaty on July 17.
  • The treaty includes a mutual assistance clause.
  • The agreement marks a shift in European defence strategy.
  • The pact aims to reduce reliance on the U.S.
  • The agreement was reported by Politico, citing officials.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the defence treaty between Germany and the UK?
The defence treaty aims to establish a mutual assistance clause that would treat any strategic threat to one country as a threat to the other.
When is the defence agreement expected to be signed?
The agreement is expected to be signed on July 17, as reported by Politico.
What does the agreement signify about European cooperation?
The agreement highlights a shift among European states, including Germany, to work more closely together and rely on mutual support outside of NATO commitments.
Who were involved in the joint declaration for closer cooperation?
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and former German Chancellor Olaf Scholz made a joint declaration in August to promote closer cooperation on various issues.
Was there any immediate comment from the German defence ministry?
Neither the German defence ministry nor the chancellor's office was immediately available for comment regarding the defence treaty.

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