UK plans defense spending rise to 2.5% GDP by 2027

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced a significant increase in defense spending, targeting 2.5% of GDP by 2027, marking the largest sustained military investment since the Cold War. This increase, equating to an additional £13.4 billion annually, will be funded by reducing the overseas development budget from 0.5% to 0.3% of GDP. Starmer emphasized the need to adapt to changing security dynamics, particularly in light of Russian aggression towards Ukraine, and has expressed intentions to further raise defense spending to 3% of GDP in the next parliament. The announcement comes amid pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump for NATO allies to increase military contributions. Critics, including former defense officials, argue that even the new target may be insufficient given current global security threats. Starmer acknowledged the painful decision to cut aid funding but stressed that national security must be the government's top priority.