Starmer's defence spending plan draws criticism as his final act as UK prime minister

The Independent (UK)—UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer unveiled a defence spending plan in what is widely expected to be among his final acts in office, but the proposal drew swift criticism from Conservative opponents and defence analysts who argued it falls well short of what Britain needs. Critics contended the plan short-changes the military at a moment of heightened European security concerns. An opinion piece argued that whoever succeeds Starmer should distance themselves from his legacy rather than build upon it. The spending announcement underscored the political debate consuming Westminster over the transition to a new prime minister.

• The Independent (UK) — Starmer's defence plan includes key commitments on military spending as part of a broader security strategy.
• The Telegraph — Critics argued Starmer's defence spending plan short-changes the military in his final act as PM.
• Al Jazeera — An op-ed argued the next UK prime minister should reject, not inherit, Starmer's policy legacy.