UK Defense Secretary John Healey resigned Thursday, citing the government's unwillingness to allocate sufficient resources to the military during a period of escalating global threats. The unexpected departure deals another blow to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who is already facing pressure from within his Labour Party.

In his resignation letter to Starmer, Healey criticized the government's Defense Investment Plan as falling "well short of what is required at this dangerous time." He specifically faulted both the Prime Minister and the Treasury for being "unable" and "unwilling" respectively to commit necessary defense resources. The publication of the defense spending plan has been delayed amid reported disagreements between the Defense Ministry and Treasury.

Healey outlined his concerns about the Treasury's proposed spending trajectory, which would see defense expenditure reach 2.6% of GDP next year and only 2.68% by 2030. While Starmer has pledged to increase defense spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027 and 3% by 2034, Healey argued this timeline is inadequate given current military commitments and threats from Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the Iran conflict, and Moscow's broader aggressive activities.

Healey, who has served as Defense Secretary since Labour's election victory in July 2024, has been regarded as a capable minister who played key roles in supporting Ukraine and building international security coalitions. He helped establish a maritime security force for the Strait of Hormuz and worked to assemble multinational support for potential Ukraine ceasefire guarantees.

The resignation comes as NATO members face continued pressure from US President Donald Trump to increase military spending, with Trump questioning the alliance's value and criticizing European nations for insufficient defense contributions. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte acknowledged the challenges countries face in balancing defense investments with other priorities while expressing respect for Healey.

Healey's departure is expected to intensify speculation about Starmer's leadership, as the Prime Minister has already faced calls from Labour colleagues to step down following various missteps since taking office. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is widely expected to challenge Starmer for party leadership if he returns to Parliament in a June 18 special election.