Spain Pushes Back: NATO's 5% Defence Spending Proposal 'Unreasonable'

Spain has rejected NATO's new defence spending proposal, which calls for 5% of GDP allocation, terming it 'unreasonable.' Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez communicated Spain's stance in a letter to NATO's Secretary-General Mark Rutte on Thursday.

Despite most NATO allies, following the United States' lead, being on track to achieve the proposed target, Spain maintains its position as one of the lowest spenders within the alliance. Sánchez insists that Spain cannot commit to the 5% target, arguing that it would detract from broader EU security efforts and harm domestic welfare.

Instead, Spain aims to meet the previous commitment of spending 2.1% of GDP on defence by 2025. The Spanish government seeks a more flexible arrangement in future discussions, emphasizing its commitment to NATO while suggesting that the 5% goal is not feasible for the country.

(With inputs from agencies.)