U.K. Defense Secretary John Healey Resigns, Citing Funding Shortfall

June 11, 2026 / 12:49 PM EDT / CBS News

U.K. Defense Secretary John Healey Resigns, Citing Funding Shortfall

TL;DR

  • Defense Secretary John Healey resigned, citing insufficient government funding for the armed forces.
  • Healey stated the Defense Investment Plan falls short of what is required for defense at a dangerous time.
  • The resignation follows disputes over the Defense Investment Plan and its adequacy for national and international security threats.
  • Healey warned that the lack of resources would force decisions reducing military readiness and increasing risk to personnel.
  • Britain faces increased commitments within NATO and other security missions, including conflicts in the Middle East and Arctic.
  • Increased Russian activity and Moscow's attacks on Ukraine are also cited as security concerns.
  • Opposition parties echoed Healey's criticisms of the government's defense policy.
  • The departure challenges Prime Minister Keir Starmer's government amid ongoing international security concerns and defense spending targets.