UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Thursday that the United Kingdom will be spending 2.5% of GDP on defense by the end of the decade.
According to the prime minister, London is going to invest in "vital capabilities like future combat air" as the UK adapts to the tense situation in the world.
His announcement comes amid NATO calls for its member countries to increase defense spending in response to Russia's military operation in Ukraine. The United Kingdom currently spends around 2% of its GDP on defence, in line with the alliance's demands.
“The NATO alliance is plainly in robust health and getting stronger, with new members and a new purpose," Johnson said as he delivered his remarks at a NATO press conference in Madrid.
However, he was quick to note that it was "never remotely likely that Ukraine was going to join NATO anytime in the foreseeable future".
As the issue of Kiev potentially joining NATO became more acute in the wake of Russia's military operation in Ukraine, Moscow spoke out against its western neighbor joining the alliance. Among those opposing the idea are several European states as well. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky voiced his grievances regarding NATO's reluctance to welcome Kiev, implying that Ukraine has already "paid enough" to become a member.
Despite not being too enthusiastic about accepting Ukraine into the alliance, NATO pledged to provide further defense and financial support to Kiev.