Official statements or press releases from the White House or Donald Trump

UK to Increase Defense Spending to 2.5% of GDP by Spring 2025 After Trump's Election: Telegraph

Nov 9, 2024, 07:48 AM

Following Donald Trump's election victory, European nations are pledging to strengthen their defense capabilities. The UK, under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, plans to increase defense spending to 2.5% of GDP by spring 2025. This move, reported by the Telegraph, is seen as a gesture to improve relations with Trump, who has previously threatened to pull the US out of NATO unless Europe boosts its own security expenditures. The current UK defense spending stands at approximately 2.2% of GDP. The increase in defense spending is expected to be announced shortly after Trump takes office. Trump's victory is also testing the ability of America's European allies to maintain solidarity and defend their economic interests.