Energy Secretary Ed Miliband reportedly led a Cabinet revolt against Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s decision to cut the UK’s foreign aid budget. The aid budget will be reduced from 0.5% to 0.3% of GDP to fund a £13.4 billion increase in defense spending.
This move surprised many in the government, and Miliband, one of Starmer’s closest allies, was among those who raised concerns during a Cabinet meeting.
Development Minister Anneliese Dodds was also reportedly shocked when she learned the full details of the cuts. Starmer acknowledged that the decision was difficult, saying, “It’s not an announcement I am happy to make,” but defended it by stating that the safety and security of the British people must come first.
The defense boost is driven by fears of Russian aggression and the need for European countries to strengthen their security. However, the aid cuts have faced criticism, including from former International Development Secretary Andrew Mitchell, who warned against balancing the budget “on the backs of the poorest people in the world.”
Starmer hopes the defense spending increase will show US President Donald Trump that European nations are serious about their security.
Starmer aims to act as a bridge between the US and Europe, holding talks with European partners, NATO, and Ukraine. Meanwhile, Trump has criticized the EU, claiming it was formed to “screw the United States,” and plans to impose 25% tariffs on EU goods.
Starmer will host Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders for talks on Sunday, following separate visits to the White House. However, tensions may arise during Starmer’s meeting with Trump, as the US is also planning tariffs on British steel imports.
