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UK Talks to Rejoin EU Security Missions as Social Security Changes Loom
Confirmed
In Short: The UK is in talks to rejoin EU security missions, while Social Security benefit changes are set to be announced soon.

Talks over the UK joining the EU defence fund have broken down, according to reports. Meanwhile, Social Security benefit changes are expected to be announced in the coming weeks, affecting how benefits are calculated and claimed.
When you're ready to apply for Social Security, you must fill out an application online or at your local Social Security Administration office. Claiming benefits before your full retirement age (FRA) reduces your checks.
What's confirmed
What's still developing
- Talks over UK joining EU defence fund break down The EU has struck framework deals with around 20 countries, although some are yet to contribute personnel to its civilian security missions.
- Civilian missions are managed by the European External Action Service, the EU's diplomatic arm The UK is in talks over rejoining EU security missions, in a move that would further widen Labour's "reset" in relations with Europe.
- EU is currently conducting 13 crisis management missions from a permanent HQ based in Brussels, as part of its common foreign and security policy.
- It is understood formal talks began in recent weeks, after EU ambassadors signed off their negotiating instructions for the EU diplomatic service in late July.
- The two sides are already in talks for deals on food standards, electricity trading and a youth visa deal ahead of a delayed summit expected later this year.
- The size of your benefit checks depends on your average indexed monthly earnings (AIME) over your 35 highest-earning years, and the age at which you begin benefits.
- Spouses and ex-spouses must be at least 62 in order to claim benefits, and spouses and children must wait for the worker to begin claiming benefits themselves before they can claim family benefits on their record.
- Your benefit is determined by your average lifetime earnings, so individuals who earned more while they were working will receive larger disability checks.
