United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced plans to increase the defence spending to 2.5 percent of GDP by 2027, with an eventual goal of reaching 3 percent in the next parliamentary term, beginning in 2029. The boost in military funding will be partially financed by reducing the foreign aid budget from 0.5 percent to 0.3 percent of GDP.
The decision comes as global leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, call on European nations to enhance their defence investments,
particularly in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine. Starmer emphasized that the move will reinforce the UK’s commitment to NATO and European security. While acknowledging that cutting foreign aid was a difficult decision, Starmer stressed that national security remains the government’s top priority. However, he assured that the UK will continue to provide humanitarian support in conflict zones and address global issues such as climate change and public health.