Ukrainecast Starmer boosts defence spending: Will it impress Trump and help Ukraine?
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Feb 25, 2025 
Shashank Joshi, Defence Editor at The Economist, delves into UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's significant defense spending increase, the highest since the Cold War. He analyzes its potential to impress Trump before Starmer’s Washington visit and explore its implications for Ukraine. Joshi discusses European troop deployments, the strategic shifts in NATO commitments, and the contentious political dynamics involving Ukraine's resources and U.S. aid, highlighting the complex interplay of military spending and international relations.
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Timing of Defense Spending Boost
- Keir Starmer's decision to boost defense spending is likely influenced by recent events, including Donald Trump's actions.
- This move aims to impress Trump during Starmer's upcoming Washington visit and demonstrate the UK's commitment to defense.
Impact of Increased Spending
- The increased defense spending will help address existing shortfalls in UK defense capabilities.
- However, it doesn't represent a dramatic expansion of military resources but rather a narrowing of the gap between commitments and capabilities.
European Security and US Guarantees
- President Macron emphasized US security guarantees in discussions with Trump, but Trump didn't reciprocate.
- Persuading Trump to prioritize European security without US involvement will be challenging due to his administration's apparent disregard for Europe.