UK Plans Aid Cuts to Fund Defence Increase

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced a significant increase in military spending, raising it to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, funded by cuts to the foreign aid budget, which will drop from 0.5% to 0.3% of GDP. This decision, driven by geopolitical pressures, particularly from the U.S. under President Trump, has drawn criticism from Labour MPs and aid organizations, who argue it will negatively impact developing countries. Defence Secretary John Healey emphasized the need for Britain to focus on 'hard power' amid evolving global threats, citing the need to combat Russian aggression. While Starmer defended the cuts as necessary for national security, critics have pointed out the potential humanitarian costs and called for alternative funding strategies. Polls indicate mixed public sentiment, with many believing foreign aid is too generous. The announcement has sparked a broader debate about the balance between military spending and humanitarian assistance.