NATO Nations Increase Defense Spending Amid Tensions

European nations are increasingly focused on boosting defense spending in response to threats from Russia and the ongoing war in Ukraine. EU Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius highlighted that Russian aggression could escalate before 2030, prompting calls for higher military budgets among EU countries, particularly from Poland and Germany. Poland's Deputy Defense Minister emphasized the need for Central European nations to lead by example, suggesting joint EU defense financing while Germany remains hesitant. The Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats is also advocating for increased individual defense budgets across EU member states. Meanwhile, the Bulgarian Ministry of Finance is forecasting significant revenue growth for 2025, although concerns remain about the realism of these projections amidst historical financial challenges. Overall, NATO members are under pressure to meet the 2% GDP spending target, with many countries, including Poland, already exceeding it as they bolster their military capabilities.