Spain is pushing back against proposals to raise NATO defense spending targets to 5% of GDP, setting the stage for a contentious debate at this month's alliance summit. The country, which met NATO's existing 2% spending goal for the first time in 2024, faces mounting pressure from U.S. leadership and some European allies to deepen military investments amid global security concerns.
Defense Minister Margarita Robles emphasized Spain's commitment to "capacities and objectives" set by NATO while resisting fixed percentage targets. Analysts point to Spain's delicate political balance as Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez navigates demands from NATO allies and his coalition partner Sumar, which opposes increased military expenditure.
Economic constraints further complicate the equation. With public debt at 103.5% of GDP – among the EU's highest – and political fragmentation stalling parliamentary approval for a proposed €10 billion defense package, Spain's position contrasts sharply with neighbors like Germany and Poland advocating for heightened spending.
Security perceptions also play a role, as defense analyst Felix Arteaga notes: "The Iberian Peninsula's geographical distance from Eastern European flashpoints reduces the sense of urgency. We don't feel immediately threatened."
The upcoming NATO summit in The Hague will test alliance unity as members debate spending definitions and timelines. While some propose allocating 3.5% of GDP to traditional defense by 2032 with additional security investments, Spain maintains that flexibility and national circumstances must guide commitments.
