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Spain's ruling coalition divides on defense spending amid EU leaders' calls for increases

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez pledged to increase Spain's defense spending in line with the rest of the EU, although a parliamentary vote revealed divisions within his ruling coalition on the matter.

Spain currently has the lowest defense spending in NATO, at 1.3% of GDP for 2024. Sanchez aims to align with European partners concerned about threats from Russia and the perceived unreliability of the U.S. under Donald Trump. However, he faces opposition from left-wing allies who are hesitant to reduce social spending in favor of defense.

The Socialist Party voted against proposals from a leftist regional party in the lower house, which opposed any increase in defense spending and called for Spain to leave NATO. In contrast, Sumar, the junior coalition partner made up of left-wing parties led by Deputy Premier Yolanda Diaz, supported the proposals. Diaz later suggested that a minimum consensus might be achievable through "calm" debate, but ultimately, the measures were rejected.

Earlier in Brussels, Sanchez reaffirmed his commitment to increasing defense and security expenditures during an EU Council meeting, although he disagreed with the term "rearming" used by EU's top diplomat Kaja Kallas. He emphasized the need for different communication with citizens regarding the improvement of security and European defense capabilities.

Sanchez pointed out that Southern European countries face distinct challenges compared to their eastern counterparts, necessitating a focus on border control, counterterrorism, and cyber threats. He has stated that Spain intends to meet NATO's spending target of 2% of GDP before the previously committed timeline of 2029.