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Spain has unveiled a €10.5 billion investment plan to accelerate its defence spending, aiming to meet NATO’s benchmark of 2% of GDP by 2025. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez emphasized that this decision highlights Europe’s responsibility to secure its future amid growing global instability.

Spain Brings Forward NATO Defence Spending Goal

Spain had previously aimed to meet NATO’s 2% GDP defence spending target by 2029. However, the country now plans to reach the goal four years earlier. Currently, Spain spends approximately 1.3% of its GDP on defence, far below the NATO average.

The new plan, approved by the Spanish government, focuses on strengthening defence industries, enhancing cybersecurity, and acquiring advanced military technologies. The proposal will be formally submitted to NATO and the European Union in the coming weeks.

Spain’s Defence Plan to Address Emerging Security Threats

Prime Minister Sánchez underscored the changing nature of global threats, stating, “Missiles are no longer the only danger.” He pointed to the rising threats of drones, cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and the sabotage of critical energy and communication networks.

Sánchez emphasized the urgency of bolstering Europe’s defence capabilities in response to these modern dangers. “Only Europe can safeguard Europe—and Spain intends to play a leading role,” he said.

Spain’s Commitment to Ukraine and European Security

Sánchez also addressed the growing threat posed by Russian aggression. He highlighted that Spain views the war in Ukraine as a critical issue for all European Union nations, regardless of their proximity to the conflict.

“Spain’s safety is inextricably linked to the security of Ukraine, Eastern Europe, and our Baltic and Nordic partners,” Sánchez stated. “We will not look the other way. Unity is essential, and Spain will stand firm.”

Defence Spending Won’t Affect Social Programs, Says Sánchez

The announcement has sparked some criticism from Spain’s left-wing coalition partner, Sumar, who labelled the defence spending plan “unreasonable.” However, Prime Minister Sánchez reassured the public that the additional funding would not lead to tax hikes, cuts to welfare programs, or an increase in the national deficit.

He further explained that this investment plan fulfills a commitment made by a former conservative government in 2014, reinforcing Spain’s credibility within NATO and its commitment to collective European security.

NATO Pressures Allies to Meet Defence Spending Goals

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has recently urged member states to accelerate their defence spending to meet the alliance’s target. With rising global tensions and impatience from the United States, Rutte has called on countries like Spain, Belgium, and Portugal to act swiftly.

“It’s better to hear it from me now than from someone less diplomatic in Washington later,” Rutte warned.

Spain’s Defence Commitment Signals Strong European Resolve

Spain’s €10.5 billion defence investment signals its readiness to meet NATO’s expectations and contribute to Europe’s collective security at a critical time. The plan represents a significant shift in Spain’s defence posture, aligning with NATO’s broader goal of enhanced military readiness across member states.

As tensions continue to rise globally, Spain’s decision to accelerate its defence spending underscores the importance of strong, united European security efforts in the face of emerging threats.