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UK-US Ties Strained; Ex-NATO Chief Calls for Defense Autonomy

4/23/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Lords committee report said the UK-US special relationship is under greater strain than at any point since World War II.
Former NATO secretary-general George Robertson warned at Chatham House that the UK must become an autonomous military actor, citing an £18 billion gap and a 5 % of GDP spending goal by 2035.
He cited President Donald Trump’s attacks on Iran and tariffs on allies as evidence of divergence between Westminster and Washington.

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Story summary

Lords committee report said the UK-US special relationship is under greater strain than at any point since World War II.
Former NATO secretary-general George Robertson warned at Chatham House that the UK must become an autonomous military actor, citing an £18 billion gap and a 5 % of GDP spending goal by 2035.
He cited President Donald Trump’s attacks on Iran and tariffs on allies as evidence of divergence between Westminster and Washington.