Keir Starmer reaffirms the United Kingdom's commitment to NATO ahead of the summit in Ankara

The British Prime Minister Keir Starmer reaffirmed the United Kingdom's commitment to its European allies within NATO, in the context of a dispute over defense spending.

During the meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at Downing Street, Starmer emphasized the importance of the United Kingdom's involvement in the organization, considered 'the most successful military alliance' in history. This meeting took place ahead of the NATO summit in Ankara, where member countries are expected to present plans to increase defense spending to 3.5% of GDP by 2035.

John Healey, former Secretary of Defense, suggested that the United Kingdom could spend only 2.68% of GDP on defense by 2030. Starmer also discussed the war in Ukraine and the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, mentioning that it is essential to continue discussions regarding preparations for the summit.

Rutte also thanked Starmer for his contributions to defense during his term.