Ben Wallace formally submits resignation as UK defense secretary

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - Ben Wallace on Thursday formally submitted his resignation as UK defense secretary, with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expected to announce his successor soon.

In his resignation letter, following on his announcement this July that he intended to leave his post, Wallace spoke of the "honour to serve alongside the men and women of our Armed forces and intelligence services who sacrifice so much for our security."

He added: "After careful contemplation, I have made the decision to request permission to step down. I first won my seat in 2005, and after many years of service, I believe it's time for me to devote attention to aspects of life that I've neglected and to explore fresh opportunities."

He extended gratitude for the support and friendship he has received, assuring Sunak and the government of his ongoing support. He is expected to keep his post as MP.

Wallace is reportedly being considered a potential successor to Jens Stoltenberg, the NATO secretary general whose term has been extended several times, but who is now slated to step down in October 2024.

Wallace previously signaled that he is ready to take the NATO helm, saying, "That’s a job I’d like ... But it’s not for me to decide. It’s for all the other allies.”

In July, Wallace announced his decision to soon step down as defense chief.

Serving at the post under three different prime ministers, Wallace has played a prominent role in UK efforts to address the conflict in Ukraine, which now is over 18 months old.

Before his July announcement, Wallace sparked controversy by saying the UK did not function like an "Amazon" delivery service for providing weapons to Ukraine and also suggested Kyiv should consider expressing "gratitude" to its supporters.