Key facts
- U.K. Defense Secretary John Healey resigned on June 11, 2026.
- Healey stated the government and Treasury were unwilling to commit needed resources for national defense.
- The resignation stems from disagreements over financing higher military spending.
- Healey warned of intelligence assessments indicating a potential Russian attack on NATO by 2030.
- He emphasized his consistent support for Ukraine throughout his term.
U.K. Defense Secretary John Healey resigned on June 11, 2026, accusing Prime Minister Keir Starmer's government of failing to provide adequate resources for national defense. Healey stated that Starmer was "unable, and the Treasury has been unwilling, to commit the resources that the nation needs to defend the country at this time of rising threats."
The resignation underscores significant divisions within the British government regarding defense expenditure, particularly as European nations reassess their security postures in light of Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine and potential shifts in U.S. security commitments.
Disagreements between the Defense Ministry and the Treasury over financing increased military spending have led to delays in publishing the government's Defense Investment Plan (DIP). This uncertainty has reportedly frustrated defense companies, hindering their ability to make long-term investment decisions.
In his resignation letter, Healey noted that he could not accept a DIP settlement that did not provide sufficient resources for the armed forces. He also referenced intelligence assessments, shared by Starmer, suggesting a potential Russian attack on NATO as early as 2030.
Healey has been a vocal proponent of military assistance to Ukraine, consistently arguing that European security is intrinsically linked to Ukraine's resistance against Russian aggression. He repeatedly pledged continued U.K. support for Kyiv and visited the country on several occasions during his tenure.