Starmer to Boost UK Defence Spending, through Aid Budget Cuts

Starmer to Boost UK Defence Spending, Cut Aid Budget Amid ‘Dangerous New Era’​

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced plans to increase defence spending while cutting the aid budget, citing growing global threats.

Speaking at a Downing Street press conference, Starmer warned of a "dangerous new era", highlighting Russia’s continued aggression beyond Ukraine.

"Putin's aggression does not stop in Ukraine. Russian spy ships menace our waters, Russian planes enter our airspace, Russian cyber attacks hit our NHS... we can't hide from this."

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Defence Spending to Rise to 2.5% of GDP​

Earlier in Parliament, Starmer confirmed that UK defence spending will increase to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, up from the current 2.3%.

The increase will see an extra £13.4 billion per year allocated to defence.

Aid Budget to Be Reduced​

While defence spending rises, Starmer confirmed a cut to foreign aid, reducing spending from 0.5% of national income to 0.3%.

His announcement signals a major shift in UK priorities, with a focus on national security in response to rising geopolitical tensions.