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Spain Accelerates NATO Defense Spending Goal to 2025

Prime Minister Sánchez announces €10.5 billion boost to hit 2% GDP target without parliamentary approval, drawing coalition criticism.

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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.