Former army chief urges UK to increase defense spending amid troop deployment plans

Former army chief Lord Dannatt criticized Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer for underestimating the cost of deploying UK troops in Ukraine. He argued that defense spending must increase to 3-3.5% of GDP, rather than the proposed 2.5%. The Prime Minister recently stated the UK is prepared to support Ukraine, including potential troop deployment. However, military leaders emphasize that current spending levels are insufficient to meet defense needs and protect British forces. Labour's commitment to raise defense spending to 2.5% would add around £5 billion to the budget. Armed forces chiefs are advocating for even higher spending, highlighting the urgency of addressing defense capabilities amid rising tensions with Russia.