London, UK – International Development Minister Anneliese Dodds has stepped down from her position in protest of Prime Minister’s cuts to the aid budget. Dodds expressed her concern in a letter to the Prime Minister, stating that the reduction in international aid to fund an increase in defense spending would have detrimental effects on vulnerable populations, tarnishing the UK’s reputation.

Dodds mentioned in her letter to Sir Keir Starmer that she postponed her resignation until after his meeting with President Trump to ensure a united cabinet. She conveyed her resignation with a sense of sadness, acknowledging that Sir Keir is not fundamentally opposed to international development. Dodds emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong commitment to global aid efforts.

Prior to his meeting with President Trump, Sir Keir announced a decrease in aid funding to redirect resources towards defense spending. The Prime Minister defended this decision, highlighting the critical role of conflict in driving migration and poverty. Dodds cautioned that the reduction in aid could lead to the UK disengaging from various nations in Africa, the Caribbean, and the Western Balkans, particularly as Russia expands its global influence.

Dodds raised concerns about the implications of the aid cut on the UK’s participation in international institutions and negotiations. She emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to balancing defense and development priorities, expressing willingness to collaborate on enhancing defense capabilities with some funding reallocated from overseas development assistance. Dodds criticized the government’s decision to place the entire burden on international aid.

The former International Development Minister underscored the significance of maintaining a strong global presence and collaborating with other nations on fiscal policies and taxation strategies. Dodds believed that a more collaborative approach, rather than a unilateral shift in resource allocation, could better address the complex challenges facing the UK and the international community. She emphasized the importance of a balanced and strategic approach to national and international priorities.