Britain is considered "incomplete" due to its failure to develop a credible plan for increasing defense spending, according to the US Ambassador to NATO. Matthew Whitaker stated on Thursday that the United Kingdom must "do its homework" to formulate a strategy that would raise defense expenditure to 5% of its GDP.
Whitaker, an ally of former President Trump, told Sky News that while the UK possesses significant capacity to invest more in defense and enhance its capabilities, it is currently falling short. He emphasized that Britain's historical role has involved maintaining a strong and ready defense apparatus, a position he believes the nation is not currently occupying. The ambassador expressed expectations that the UK will undertake the necessary steps to develop a credible long-term plan to achieve the 5% spending target by 2035.
"The UK is a serious ally. We want them to be more capable and more ready, and I think that they will be committed to that. But as of today, we're not quite there," Whitaker remarked.
This assessment follows the recent publication of the Labour party's defense investment plan, which has reportedly drawn criticism for not adequately addressing the threats Britain faces. The plan also did not specify a timeline for increasing defense spending to 3% of GDP, a level widely considered the minimum required for national security.
Shadow defense secretary James Cartlidge responded to Whitaker's comments, stating that Labour's defense investment plan has "completely unravelled" and that "now even our closest allies are calling them out over it." He further alleged that the party has not determined how to fund its proposals, despite significant delays in their release. Cartlidge suggested that Labour leader Keir Starmer has avoided making difficult decisions necessary for national safety, contributing to his resignation.
Andy Burnham, who is set to succeed Starmer, will reportedly face the challenge of identifying £15 billion to fund the spending plans. Downing Street has acknowledged that no specific budget cuts have yet been identified to support these plans.
Whitaker suggested that economic growth offers a "simple solution" to securing the necessary funds. He explained that either the economy must expand to create more resources for defense spending, or difficult political choices will need to be made. He reiterated his commitment to encouraging all allies, including the UK, to uphold the Hague defense commitment of increasing defense spending to 5% of GDP.
In related comments, Whitaker refrained from endorsing Starmer's reported ambition to succeed Mark Rutte as NATO secretary general, stating that decisions regarding future leadership will be addressed at a later time and that there will likely be many qualified candidates for the position.