UK to Boost Defense Spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027

Prime Minister Keir Starmer announces the largest sustained increase in British defense funding since the Cold War, financed by cuts to foreign aid.

The UK plans to raise defense spending from 2.3% to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, with a long-term goal of reaching 3% after 2029.
This marks the largest sustained increase in British defense funding since the Cold War, amounting to an additional £13.4 billion annually.
The increase will be financed by reducing foreign aid from 0.5% to 0.3% of GDP, a decision criticized by organizations like Save the Children as harmful to vulnerable populations.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer framed the move as essential to counter threats from Russia and strengthen the UK's leadership role within NATO.
Starmer is set to discuss the UK’s defense strategy and the Ukraine conflict with US President Donald Trump during a visit to Washington this week.