Why are European countries increasing defense spending?

I have been hearing a lot about this lately, why all of a sudden are places like the U.K.
doubling their defense budget?

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MartinII · 70-79, M

I don't think we are doubling our defence budget - more's the pity. Starmer has only said he will increase it from 2.3% to 2.5% of GDP - which might mean no increase at all! Still, it seems to have bought Starmer a favourable reception in Washington.

JimboSaturn · 56-60, M

@MartinII Yes most countries are not doubling their budgets but hitting the 2% or 2.5% of NATO spending. Another right wing hyperbole.

Thrust · 56-60, M

@JimboSaturn 🙄 so all of NATO are paying their agreed share? You know that Mr Perpetual Scold?

JimboSaturn · 56-60, M

@Thrust I actually do agree with you. Canada should have paid its 2% for sure. But the US would spend that much on their military regardless, its and industry there.

I've always been an advocate of spending more on our military. I'm not a pacifist.

DogMan · 61-69, M

@JimboSaturn Starmer will be putting another 17 Billion into defense, I guess that is a start.

JimboSaturn · 56-60, M

@DogMan Yes he said that he will go above the 2% which is good, Europe and Canada must start spending to defend itself.