Pedro Sánchez, Prime Minister of Spain, has confirmed the country’s commitment to NATO objectives, stating that Spain will not exceed two point one percent of its GDP on military spending. This statement came after a NATO summit in The Hague, where concerns were raised about Spain’s defence budget. Sánchez pointed out that Spain’s commitment involves military capabilities, but not necessarily a specific GDP percentage demanded by some allies.

During the summit, Sánchez faced criticism from various countries regarding Spain’s spending. Despite this, he reaffirmed his position, explaining that the budget of two point one percent includes costs for security and strategic capabilities beyond just military investment. He emphasised that Spain’s commitment allows for maintaining its investment sovereignty.

Sánchez also responded to comments made by United States President Donald Trump regarding military spending, describing Spain as a solution, not a problem. He noted that Spain has shown its dedication to NATO through deployed forces and advanced technology. The Prime Minister highlighted the different security realities faced by Spain compared to other NATO members, particularly in relation to challenges in the southern region, such as drug trafficking and instability in the Sahel.

Overall, Sánchez portrayed the agreement reached at the NATO summit as a success, indicating it respects Spain’s sovereignty and satisfies the expectations of NATO members. He firmly stated that excessive spending would pose a burden on Spain’s finances, impacting middle-class taxpayers and public services. The summit results, he suggested, fostered stronger transatlantic relations and unity within NATO.