British Defense Minister John Healey Resigns Over Defense Funding

British Defense Minister John Healey resigned on June 11, 2026, in protest over what he described as insufficient funding for the defense investment plan.

In a letter to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Healey argued that the proposed budget does not meet security needs. He stated that it reduces armed forces readiness, increases risks, and endangers national security amid rising global threats. These threats include the war in Ukraine, the crisis in the Middle East, and Russian activities against NATO. Healey called for defense spending to reach 3 percent of gross domestic product by 2030.

Tan Dhesi, chairman of the British Parliament's Defense Committee, praised Healey and called the resignation a critical warning for the government. Al Carns, British Armed Forces Minister, stated that the defense investment plan in its current form is not suitable for achieving intended goals.