UK and Germany Sign Landmark Defense Pact, First Since WWII
In a move signaling a significant shift in European security dynamics, the United Kingdom and Germany have signed a historic defense pact, the first of its kind between the two nations since World War II. The "Kensington Treaty," as it's been dubbed, was signed on Thursday, July 17, 2025, in London by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
The agreement commits both countries to closer cooperation, particularly in the face of what they perceive as a growing threat from Russia. The signing was immediately followed by a sharp rebuke from Moscow, reiterating warnings about the consequences of providing long-range weapons to Ukraine.
Key Provisions of the Kensington Treaty
Formally known as the Treaty of Friendship and Bilateral Cooperation, the Kensington Treaty outlines 17 joint projects designed to bolster defense and security collaboration between the UK and Germany.
One of the most significant aspects of the treaty is the joint development of a deep precision strike weapon with a range exceeding 2,000 kilometers. The project is slated for completion within the next decade.
Beyond defense, the treaty also addresses migration issues. Germany has committed to enacting a law by the end of the year that would criminalize facilitating migrant smuggling to the UK.
Stakeholders and the Geopolitical Context
Key stakeholders involved in this agreement include UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and, indirectly, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova. The context surrounding the treaty is multifaceted, driven by Russia's continued aggression in Ukraine and a perceived wavering commitment to NATO from the United States, particularly given President Trump's "America First" approach.
The pact aims to solidify the role of the "E3" – Germany, the UK, and France – as a central pillar of European security, providing a counterbalance to potential uncertainties in transatlantic relations.
Mutual Defense and Increased Defense Spending
The Kensington Treaty includes a mutual defense clause, stating that both nations will "assist one another, including by military means, in case of an armed attack on the other." However, the practical implications of this clause are debated, considering that both countries are already members of NATO and bound by its collective defense obligations.
Both Germany and the UK have committed to increasing their defense spending to 3.5% of GDP in the coming years, signaling a concrete commitment to enhanced military capabilities.
Reactions and Statements
Following the signing, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz hailed it as a "pivotal day for the relations between Germany and Britain." He also indicated that Ukraine would soon receive substantial additional support in the form of long-range weapons.
In response, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova issued a stern warning, stating that Russia "considers itself entitled to use its weapons against the military facilities of countries that permit the use of their weapons against us" if Kyiv receives long-range weapons.
Joint Production and Military Exports
The treaty encompasses plans for the joint production and export of military equipment, including Boxer armored vehicles and Typhoon jets. This collaboration aims to strengthen both nations' defense industries and enhance their ability to project military power.
Further solidifying defense ties, Stark, a German defense startup specializing in drone production for Ukraine, is set to establish a factory in England. This move will facilitate closer technological collaboration and potentially boost drone production for the Ukrainian military.
Controversy and Potential Consequences
Moscow's warning of potential military strikes against Western European targets remains a significant point of contention. This threat underscores the heightened tensions in the region and the potential for escalation.
The treaty's mutual defense clause has sparked debate about its necessity, given NATO's existing framework for collective defense. Critics argue that it may create unnecessary duplication and potentially complicate existing security arrangements.
Addressing Illegal Migration
The Kensington Treaty extends beyond defense to address the issue of illegal migration. Germany's commitment to criminalizing the facilitation of migrant smuggling to the UK is a notable aspect of this agreement.
In 2024, over 37,000 people crossed the English Channel to the UK in small boats, and the numbers remain high in 2025, with over 22,000 crossings recorded so far. This aspect of the treaty reflects a shared desire to tackle irregular migration and combat criminal networks involved in human smuggling.
