**Warning Signs of a Threatened Democracy**
Former British Prime Minister Sir John Major has sounded the alarm on democracy being under threat. He blames the United States for stepping back from its leading role in the world, creating a power vacuum that emboldens nations like Russia and China.
Sir John says the gains made since the collapse of the Soviet Union are now being reversed. He warns that Russia will invade elsewhere before long, citing the ongoing war in Ukraine as evidence.
**Growing Nationalism and Threats to Democracy**
The former prime minister also spoke out against “ugly nationalism” that is on the rise globally. He believes this growing tide is making for a very unsettled time. Sir John rejects US Vice-President JD Vance’s criticism of Europe‘s record on free speech, saying it should have been directed at Russia or China instead.
**Emergency Summit and Defence Funding**
European leaders are set to meet for an emergency summit on Monday to discuss the Ukraine conflict. Meanwhile, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds has announced plans to increase defence spending in the UK, from 2.3% to 2.5% of economic output. Sir John Major agrees that more should be done, calling for a significant increase in defence funding.
**Concerns Over US and Russian Relations**
The US and Russia are set to hold peace talks despite concerns among European nations, including Ukraine, that they are being left out. Sir John has made public interventions on this issue before, including signing a petition calling for Vladimir Putin‘s trial for war crimes over his actions in Ukraine.
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