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Spain Accelerates NATO Defense Spending Target, Deepening Political Rift

Prime Minister Sánchez announces a €10.47 billion military investment plan to meet NATO's 2% GDP goal by 2025, causing fractures within the left-wing coalition.

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Overview

  • Spain's government unveiled a defense budget for 2025, allocating €10.47 billion to meet NATO's 2% GDP spending requirement four years ahead of schedule.
  • The plan includes €2 billion for new deterrence systems and a €15 million ammunition sale to Israel, bypassing parliamentary approval.
  • Prime Minister Sánchez cited international pressure from the U.S. and NATO as key factors for the accelerated timeline, aiming to position Spain as a reliable alliance member.
  • Coalition tensions have escalated, with Podemos labeling the government as a 'war government' and Izquierda Unida threatening to withdraw from the alliance.
  • Sánchez insists the spending increase will not lead to tax hikes, social program cuts, or additional national debt, amid criticism over fiscal trade-offs and transparency.