EU’s SAFE joint defence lending programme wins final Council approval

Published on May 28, 2025

The EU’s General Affairs Council has given final approval to the €150 billion Security Action for Europe (SAFE) programme, a defence lending initiative aimed at boosting joint military procurement among EU countries and select partners like Ukraine, Norway, and potentially the UK. The Commission controversially bypassed the European Parliament by invoking an emergency clause, sparking legal backlash and a possible court challenge. SAFE will offer 45-year loans for collaborative defence projects such as ammunition, drones, and electronic warfare, requiring participation from at least three countries. Final proposals are due in November, with funding approvals expected by mid-2027 and disbursements by the end of 2030.

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