Overview
- Spain, previously one of NATO's lowest spenders, will increase defense spending to 2% of its GDP by the end of 2025, four years ahead of its original timeline.
- The government will allocate an additional €10.5 billion to achieve this target, raising military expenditures by approximately 50%.
- Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez stated that no parliamentary approval is required for the spending increase, though he plans to present the decision to lawmakers.
- Sánchez assured that the increase would not involve cuts to social programs or new taxes, citing Spain's strong economic performance as a foundation for the funding.
- Labor Minister Yolanda Díaz, leader of coalition partner Sumar, has publicly opposed the move, criticizing the prioritization of military spending.