Estonia has charged Britain’s Prime Minister Rishi Sunak with committing to increased defense spending in the midst of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Liz Truss, his predecessor, promised to increase government spending from 2% to 3% of GDP by 2030.
Estonian Foreign Minister Urmas Reinsalu stated that the UK must not break its word.
Reinsalu was asked by the BBC if NATO countries should aim to spend 3% of GDP on defense.
The official said yes, noting that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine was a “game-changer.”
“Autocrats are spending money on weapons.” They believe in the strength of arms.
“We need to invest in weapons to defend our values – the rules-based order,” he said.
Reinsalu also requested that the UK not reduce troop numbers in Estonia.
According to reports, nearly 700 British troops stationed in the country are being withdrawn with no replacements planned.
Sunak, on the other hand, has assured Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky of the UK’s “steadfast support.” Tuesday evening, the leaders communicated.