The Guardian view on defence spending: bold ideas needed to have guns as well as butter | Editorial
Briefly

Former foreign secretary William Hague criticized Donald Trump's peacemaking methods, arguing they foster instability and future conflicts. He suggested that Britain must bolster defense spending, highlighting the UK’s current constraints in sustaining military aid to Ukraine. While most of Europe embraces a shift towards increased defense funding to counter Russian aggression, the UK remains tied to fiscal discipline, risking cuts to essential public services. This approach contrasts with the EU's more flexible financial strategies aimed at security, urging British leaders to reconsider their priorities in light of these global threats.
When settling wars rewards lawlessness, displaces populations and fuels lasting grievances, the result is more war. That's the verdict on Trump's peacemaking approach.
Britain's current economic orthodoxy prioritizing fiscal discipline over military funding could undermine its ability to provide security guarantees, particularly in Ukraine.
Ursula von der Leyen's call for a fiscal shift to boost military spending highlights the EU's readiness to confront Russian threats while Britain remains constrained.
Cutting defense to fund austerity measures could lead to long-term political backlash as essential services face significant budget reductions.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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