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Defence Policy

All articles tagged with #defence policy

Burnham's Potential Premiership Signals a Bigger Defense Push and Possible EU Re-engagement
politics16 days ago

Burnham's Potential Premiership Signals a Bigger Defense Push and Possible EU Re-engagement

Andy Burnham’s rise could keep Starmer’s multilateral defense posture but push for higher spending, a 10-year procurement horizon, and a defense-led industrial strategy funded partly by growth. He may borrow beyond strict fiscal rules, delay the Defence Investment Plan to autumn, and seek stronger European ties—including the prospect of rejoining the EU if political space allows—while maintaining support for Ukraine and a long-term, growth-based path to funding defense.

Finland lifts nuclear ban to bolster NATO deterrence
world26 days ago

Finland lifts nuclear ban to bolster NATO deterrence

Finland’s parliament voted to repeal the 1987 Nuclear Energy Act’s ban on nuclear weapons, enabling potential transport, supply or possession of nuclear arms under NATO deterrence. The amendment passed with a two-thirds majority (125-61, 13 abstentions) and now goes to the president for final approval, marking a major shift since Finland joined NATO in 2023. Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen called it a historic reform that strengthens Finland and NATO security, while critics warn it could escalate tensions and make Finland a target amid Russia tensions.

Southport verdict sparks reform calls across UK headlines
uk-news3 months ago

Southport verdict sparks reform calls across UK headlines

British papers front the Southport inquiry verdict that three girls’ deaths could have been prevented with parental intervention, while other stories cover criticism of defence policy, plans to curb solar grid overload with paid laundry electricity on sunny weekends, research showing dull conversations can feel more engaging, and Trump’s deleted AI image plus a Monty Python callback on front pages.

Finland eyes lifting ban on hosting nuclear weapons to bolster NATO deterrence
world4 months ago

Finland eyes lifting ban on hosting nuclear weapons to bolster NATO deterrence

Finland plans to amend its Nuclear Energy Act and criminal code to allow bringing or possessing nuclear weapons on Finnish soil if connected to national defense, aligning with NATO deterrence after joining the alliance in 2023. The proposal would enable hosting weapons as part of allied defence, requires consultation until 2 April, and comes amid a deteriorating security environment following Russia's invasion of Ukraine and increased NATO presence in the Arctic and Baltic regions.

Starmer Pledges Defence Stability as Farage Joins Election Race
politics2 years ago

Starmer Pledges Defence Stability as Farage Joins Election Race

UK Labour Party leader Keir Starmer has pledged to secure the country's armed forces and nuclear deterrent, aiming to reassure voters about national security ahead of the July 4 election. Starmer emphasized Labour's commitment to defence, contrasting with the party's previous stance under Jeremy Corbyn. He promised a "nuclear deterrent triple lock" and matched the Conservative pledge to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP. Starmer also reiterated Labour's call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

"New Zealand's Election Puts Defence and Security in Spotlight Amid China's Pacific Influence"
politics2 years ago

"New Zealand's Election Puts Defence and Security in Spotlight Amid China's Pacific Influence"

Defence and security have become prominent issues in New Zealand's upcoming general election, with public concern about the security environment and China's assertiveness. A recent survey found that 40% of respondents see China's rise as a major threat to New Zealand's safety and security in the next decade. The country's defence review highlighted the need for increased military capabilities and acknowledged that geographical isolation is no longer a guarantee of security. The major parties are grappling with how to respond to these challenges, with voters showing a heightened interest in foreign policy and defence issues.