NATO Agrees on 5% Defense Spending Target

NATO member states have agreed to raise their defense spending to 5% of national GDP by 2035, marking the most significant military investment pledge in the alliance’s history.

The agreement, expected to be formally ratified during the upcoming two-day NATO summit in The Hague, sets a dual spending threshold: 3.5% of GDP dedicated to core military operations, with an additional 1.5% allocated for related defense initiatives.

The target represents a long-standing demand of former US President Donald Trump, who criticized European allies for relying too heavily on American defense resources.

While most members backed the proposal, Spain initially opposed the measure. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez argued that the 5% target was disproportionate and counterproductive, insisting Spain could meet NATO obligations with just 2.1% of GDP.

However, a compromise was reached, granting Spain an exemption from the requirement, allowing the deal to proceed.

Sánchez’s resistance reflects broader domestic pressures. He is currently navigating a political crisis fueled by a corruption scandal, while facing internal opposition from his left-wing coalition partner, Sumar, which is firmly against any increase in military spending.