UK Defense Spending to Rise Amid Global Shifts

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced plans to increase the nation's defense spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, with a target of reaching 3% in the next parliament, in response to Russian aggression and recent geopolitical shifts. This increase, amounting to an additional £13.4 billion annually, will be funded by reducing the foreign aid budget from 0.5% to 0.3% of national income, a decision that has sparked domestic criticism. Starmer's announcement comes before his meeting with US President Donald Trump, aimed at reassuring the US of Europe's commitment to collective security. The move aligns with NATO's call for its members to spend at least 2% of GDP on defense, although Trump has advocated for up to 5%. The decision highlights a new era of defense prioritization amid increasing global threats and has received mixed reactions due to concerns over the impact of reduced aid on vulnerable populations.