UK plans to boost defense spending to 2.5% of national income by 2027

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer plans to increase defense spending to 2.5% of national income by 2027. This move aims to strengthen the UK's defense capabilities and respond to U.S. calls for European nations to spend more on their own security. The increase will result in a significant reduction in foreign aid, dropping from 0.5% to 0.3% of national income, equating to £6 billion less annually. The government intends to use the remaining aid for specific global issues, but charities have criticized the cuts as harmful to vulnerable populations. Starmer's defense spending announcement may improve diplomatic relations with the U.S., particularly with Donald Trump. However, European diplomats view the increase as insufficient for meaningful impact, suggesting a need for spending to reach at least 3% of national wealth.