Spain to Meet NATO's 2% Defense Spending Goal This Year

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced that Spain will meet NATO's defense spending target of 2% of GDP this year, advancing the goal years ahead of the original 2029 deadline. The decision responds to rising geopolitical tensions and U.S. pressure on European allies to increase military expenditures. Spain plans to boost its defense budget by approximately €10.5 billion ($12 billion), prioritizing investments in telecommunications, cybersecurity—including a new digital shield—and the modernization of military equipment. The initiative also aims to improve conditions for armed forces personnel and is anticipated to generate around 100,000 jobs, promoting technological innovation and economic growth. Sánchez emphasized that this increased spending will not lead to additional debt or cuts to social programs, and framed the move as essential for fulfilling Spain's NATO and EU commitments in an era of changing global security dynamics. Despite opposition from coalition partners, the government has approved the plan, which will be submitted to Brussels.