Former NATO Chief Warns UK’s Security at Risk

Lord George Robertson, a retired NATO secretary general, is set to critique the UK government’s approach to national defense, claiming that leaders have shown a “lax attitude” toward security. His remarks will be delivered during a speech in Salisbury, where he will highlight what he describes as a dangerous gap between the country’s preparedness and the threats it faces.

Strategic Defence Review Delayed

The government has committed to releasing a long-term defense funding plan to support the Strategic Defence Review (SDR), but progress has stalled repeatedly. Robertson, who played a central role in drafting the SDR, will accuse Treasury officials of “careless optimism” and equate their actions to “vandalism” in undermining military priorities.

“Britain’s defense cannot keep pace with a growing welfare budget,” Robertson is expected to say. “We are underprepared. We are underinsured. We are under attack. We are not safe… Britain’s national security and safety is in peril.”

Political Leadership Faces Criticism

Lord Robertson will argue that political leaders have been negligent in addressing defense risks, offering only superficial attention to dangers. He claims even discussions about national security have not been initiated despite promises to engage in a broader conversation. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer previously stated the defense plan was “being finalised” and on his desk, but Robertson suggests this is not sufficient.

Global Tensions Drive Defense Demands

The UK’s defense strategy has come under pressure following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the re-election of US President Donald Trump. These events have prompted NATO allies to increase military spending, with the government aiming to reach 3% of GDP allocation by the end of the next parliamentary term. A spokesperson defended the SDR, stating it is “supported by the largest sustained defense spending rise since the Cold War,” totaling over £270 billion.

Military Readiness in Question

Chief of the Defence Staff Sir Richard Knighton recently told the BBC that the Middle East conflict marks “the most dangerous period in 30 years.” Meanwhile, some have raised concerns about the UK’s response to recent threats, including the deployment of a Royal Navy vessel to Cyprus to shield the RAF Akrotiri base from drone attacks.