UK Slash Aid Budget, Boosts Defense

0:00Today is March 19th. Here's what's making headlines worldwide. Britain has decided to cut its international aid budget to 0.3 percent of gross national income to free up money for defense spending. This move follows pressure from the United States to boost military funds. Foreign Secretary Avec Cooper laid out the first details in parliament, protecting aid for key conflict zones. Funding for Sudan, Ukraine, Lebanon, and the Palestinian territories will stay the same at about 1.4 billion pounds a year for the next. Three years. A to much of Africa and the Middle East will drop, including cuts to countries like Somalia and Yemen. The government plans to phase out direct aid to most G20 nations, except Turkey due to its refugees. Humanitarian groups were shot, back in February, when Prime Minister Kier Starmer first announced the cuts. He had promised to restore aid to 0.7 percent before last year's election, but the previous conservative government had already reduced.

1:00It from 0.7 to 0.5 percent during the pandemic. Cooper outlined a new focus on partnership over handouts, shifting to sharing British expertise to help countries build their own strength. Direct grants will decrease as Britain acts more like an investor. Support for women and girls remains a top priority, along with 6 billion pounds for climate vulnerable areas. Britain was the 4th biggest aid donor worldwide in 2024, behind the U.S., Germany, and EU bodies. D&N is brought to you by our sponsor link in the description. From Chase Peace, I'll put my head in it, S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com.