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Keir Starmer Urges Faster Defence Spending Push Amid Russia Threat

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer urged a faster acceleration of defence spending, citing the growing Russian threat. Britain currently spends 2.3% of GDP on defence, above NATO’s 2% guideline, and plans to reach 2.5% by 2027 and 3% by the next parliament, but is now exploring an earlier 2029 target. The government cut its international aid budget to fund the 2.5% rise, while the Office for Budget Responsibility estimates an extra £17.3 bn will be needed to hit 3% in 2029‑30. Finance Minister Rachel Reeves remains cautious amid high debt levels.