Sánchez highlights military investment and social spending balance for Spain’s defense strategy

Monday 17 March 2025 - 11:46

By: Zahouani Ilham

Sánchez highlights military investment and social spending balance for Spain’s defense strategy

Spanish President Pedro Sánchez has emphasized his government’s commitment to military investments since taking office, asserting that these efforts will continue without cuts to social spending. He stressed that "Europe must protect Europe," defending the country’s security and defense spending, which NATO expects to reach 2% of Spain’s GDP by 2029. Sánchez proudly noted that his administration has not only reduced the public deficit but has also increased the defense budget by over €10 billion, ecological transition funding by over €20 billion, and social protection policies by €120 billion. Despite left-wing coalition partners focusing on social expenditure and accusations from the opposition (PP) of lack of transparency regarding military spending plans, Sánchez reaffirmed that his government will prioritize more defense spending without cutting social programs.

In his address to the Aragón PSOE Congress, Sánchez compared his administration’s investment record with that of the previous conservative government. "Under their rule, social and defense budgets were cut; the difference is clear," Sánchez stated. He stressed the need for strong leadership to navigate the country’s future securely, while also emphasizing that spending on defense will not compromise social budgets as was the case under the PP’s tenure.

Recently, Sánchez met with parliamentary groups, excluding Vox, and faced criticism from PP leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo, who accused the government of lacking a clear plan for increased military spending. Sánchez clarified that such decisions would be swiftly managed by the Cabinet, and parliamentary approval would only be sought if absolutely necessary.

In response, the PP announced plans to summon Defense Minister Margarita Robles to explain military budget increases and the government’s strategy regarding the Ukrainian conflict ahead of the upcoming European Council meeting. Sánchez responded, accusing the PP of being silent on tariff threats from Donald Trump and failing to act as a state opposition.

During his address, Sánchez contrasted his government’s clarity and commitment to an uncertain PP without a clear agenda. He stressed the importance of multilateralism and an international order where nations coexist peacefully under agreed rules. Sánchez advocated for a fair and lasting peace in Ukraine, emphasizing that Russia should not be rewarded for its aggression.

Following a virtual meeting with global leaders committed to peace in Ukraine, Sánchez reiterated that Europe must step up its security efforts to "deter" Russian attacks, distinguishing between the direct threats faced by countries near the Russian border, such as Finland, and the hybrid and cyber threats that Spain could encounter. The Spanish government has committed to supporting Nordic and Baltic nations while improving its own security infrastructure and enhancing civil protection response capabilities through digitalization and technological advancements. Sánchez encouraged Spain’s tech entrepreneurs and SMEs, along with defense industry corporations, to contribute to a technological leap for the nation.