Farage accuses PM of leaving UK short on defence funding

Nigel Farage criticised Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s approach to defence funding and said it had left the UK diminished internationally. He cited a recent warning that the Ministry of Defence faces a reported £28 billion shortfall to 2030.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has publicly criticised Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s handling of defence spending. He said the government’s approach has left the UK diminished on the international stage amid heightened global tensions. The claim followed a report that the Ministry of Defence faces a reported £28 billion shortfall to 2030. Farage made his remarks in a Mail on Sunday article, and government sources responded to his comments. Key points: - Nigel Farage criticised the Prime Minister’s approach to defence funding and said it weakened the UK’s international standing. - Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton reportedly told the Prime Minister that the MoD faces a £28 billion shortfall between now and 2030. - Farage said he would oppose plans to deploy British troops as part of a future peacekeeping force in Ukraine, arguing limitations in manpower and supplies. - A No 10 source was quoted as saying the government is increasing defence spending and described the recent budget plans as a historic uplift. Summary: The exchanges have sharpened debate about the size and timing of defence spending increases and political accountability for military preparedness. Undetermined at this time.