Kemi Badenoch warns of UK weakness

Badenoch's plan includes increasing the size of the British Army by 20,000 troops and significantly boosting defense spending to meet the threats posed by Russia and the Iran war.

Labour ministers have mocked the vow, pointing to the 'hollowing out' of the military during the previous Tory administration.

The debate over national security has become a central issue ahead of the local elections, with both sides accusing the other of having no viable plan for defense.

Badenoch argues that the US policy of turning its back on Europe is the 'new normal' and requires a more independent British military capability.