Prime Minister Keir Starmer of the UK has announced plans to increase defense spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, citing a new era of insecurity in Europe that demands a substantial response. This announcement precedes Starmer’s visit to the White House to urge President Trump to continue support for Ukraine and NATO. Starmer emphasized the importance of standing by Ukraine for lasting peace and security, particularly in light of recent developments in the conflict.

The proposed increase in defense spending, amounting to an additional £13.4 billion annually, aims to reach 3% of GDP by 2035. To fund this boost, overseas development aid will be reduced from 0.5% to 0.3% of national income. Starmer characterized this move as the most significant sustained rise in defense spending since the Cold War, essential to counter threats from adversaries like Russian President Putin.

This commitment comes at a time when European nations are enhancing collective defense amid shifts in American foreign policy under Trump. Starmer’s government is seeking closer defense collaboration with European partners and aims to strengthen ties with the US. The Prime Minister’s approach emphasizes the importance of maintaining strong relationships with both European allies and the United States, rejecting any false dichotomies between the two sides of the Atlantic. Starmer’s proactive stance underscores the UK’s strategic priorities and its efforts to navigate complex global dynamics effectively.