In response to rising global tensions, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced plans to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by the end of the decade. The move is seen as a significant strengthening of the nation’s defence capabilities amidst geopolitical uncertainties and threats from adversaries. Additionally, the UK has pledged substantial new military support to Ukraine, including advanced weaponry and ammunition.
The international geopolitical landscape is characterized by heightened tensions and escalating conflicts. The ongoing Ukraine conflict, the growing rift between China and the Philippines in the western Pacific, and the simmering tensions between Iran and Israel pose significant challenges for global stability and security. The Ukraine conflict, pitting Russia and Western powers against each other, has raised concerns about a potential nuclear escalation and the breakdown of arms control agreements. Despite efforts to weaken Russia through a proxy war in Ukraine, Western strategies have failed to produce a clear outcome, leaving no signs of genuine negotiations. The EU, facing economic woes and social unrest, seeks to increase its military capabilities and assume more responsibility for supporting Ukraine. However, support for the conflict is waning in the US, with diminishing enthusiasm for providing weapons and funding to Ukraine. As the possibility of a diplomatic breakthrough seems remote, preparations are underway for a peace conference in Switzerland. Russia has dismissed Zelensky’s maximalist peace proposal, while the organizers aim to mobilize support from Global South countries to diplomatically isolate Russia. China has also proposed a peace plan, but its lack of traction highlights the challenges of resolving the conflict.
