On February 25, 2025, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that the government plans to significantly increase defense spending over the next few years. By 2027, the defense budget is expected to reach 2.5% of the country’s GDP.

This decision will result in an increase of £13.4 billion (approximately $17 billion USD) in defense spending, aimed at strengthening national security, enhancing military capabilities, and playing a more active role on the global stage.

Currently, the UK’s defense spending accounts for approximately 2.3% of GDP. In a statement before the House of Commons, Starmer emphasized that to achieve this increase, the government will reduce international aid spending from 0.5% to 0.3% of Gross National Income (GNI) by 2027.

He stated that this adjustment is intended to balance defense needs with fiscal responsibility, ensuring both national security and economic stability.

Many analysts interpret Starmer’s move as a signal to U.S. President Donald Trump, demonstrating the UK’s willingness to take on greater defense responsibilities in Europe.

Previously, Trump had repeatedly urged NATO allies to increase their defense spending to share the burden of U.S. security commitments. Starmer is scheduled to visit Washington on February 27 to meet Trump and discuss bilateral relations and global security issues.In addition to increasing the defense budget, the UK government also plans to rebuild the country's military industry. (Photo: Screenshot from Pexels)

UK to Rebuild Domestic Defense Industry

In addition to increasing the defense budget, the UK government also plans to revitalize its domestic defense industry, aiming to create jobs and stimulate economic growth.

Starmer described this as the largest defense investment since the end of the Cold War, designed to enhance national defense capabilities and respond to the evolving global security landscape.

However, the decision to cut international aid has sparked widespread debate both domestically and internationally. Human rights organizations and charitable groups fear that this could affect humanitarian aid and development projects worldwide, potentially weakening the UK’s global influence.

The government, however, has pledged to continue providing critical support in key regions such as Ukraine and the Gaza Strip, ensuring that global stability and security remain a priority.

Notably, in January 2024, the UK and Ukraine signed a 10-year "UK-Ukraine Security Cooperation Agreement", aimed at enhancing intelligence sharing, military training, and defense industry collaboration.

This move is seen as the UK’s formal commitment to Ukraine’s security and reflects its growing influence in Eastern Europe.

Balancing Defense Strength and Humanitarian Responsibilities

Overall, the UK government’s plan to increase defense spending underscores its focus on global security and its ambition to take on a more active role in international affairs. However, how to balance national defense expansion with international humanitarian responsibilities remains a key challenge for the government.