UK commits to increasing defence spending to 2.5% of GDP, says Chancellor Reeves

Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed the UK’s commitment to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP, up from the current 2.3%. This aligns with Labour's manifesto promises amid rising pressure on NATO countries to boost their military budgets. Reeves emphasized that the increase will be implemented "in the proper way." This comes as the US urges European nations to enhance their own security contributions, especially with ongoing discussions about peace in Ukraine. Defence Secretary John Healey reiterated NATO's commitment to increased spending and collaboration among member nations. He noted that non-US NATO countries raised their defence budgets by 20% in the past year.