UK and EU countries must spend more on defence, says Lammy
The UK and EU countries must increase their defence spending, with Europe facing an “existential question” even in the event of a negotiated peace in Ukraine, according to David Lammy.
Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, the UK Foreign Secretary said that “Putin will not go away” and emphasized the need for increased military spending despite 23 NATO countries already meeting the 2% GDP threshold. He confirmed the UK’s commitment to spending 2.5% and announced that a pathway to achieve this goal would be unveiled soon.
Lammy’s remarks followed US Vice-President JD Vance’s statement that Europe must “step up in a big way to provide for its own defence.” Vance argued that Europe’s biggest threats came from within, citing issues like migration and free speech.
During a panel discussion with officials from France, Germany, and Poland, Lammy stressed the importance of continuous support for Ukraine and pointed out Europe’s minimal spending on the conflict compared to its combined GDP. He reiterated that even with peace, Europe must remain vigilant about Putin’s intentions.
Lammy also acknowledged the US’s increased focus on the Pacific due to China’s growing economic and military power. He urged Europe to do more, as US priorities shift toward the Indo-Pacific.
In a Telegraph article, Lammy and Defence Secretary John Healey criticized the West’s response to Russia’s 2014 invasion of Ukraine. They urged greater collaboration between the UK and Europe to share security responsibilities.
The UK has committed an extra £150m toward military aid for Ukraine and imposed new sanctions on Putin’s allies, arguing that Russia only responds to strength.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, meeting with Vance at the conference, called for “security guarantees” ahead of peace talks between the US and Russia. He proposed creating an “army of Europe” to safeguard the continent and reduce dependence on external powers. Zelensky emphasized the need for a unified European voice.
Lammy suggested a long-term military and financial partnership as a potential security guarantee, mentioning the UK’s 100-year partnership with Ukraine. He highlighted the importance of binding US industry and defence capabilities with Ukraine’s future to deter Putin and appeal to US leaders.
Experts have also proposed a peacekeeping mission to Ukraine. Lord Dannatt, a former British Army chief, estimated such a mission would require 100,000 troops, including 40,000 from the UK—a number that he said the country currently lacks.
Sir Richard Shirreff, NATO’s former deputy supreme commander, echoed the need for significant troop numbers and called this a defining moment for European governments and militaries to strengthen their capabilities.
Credit: BBC
