The Defense Commissioner states that "it is a shame" that Spain does not increase spending and warns: "If you do not invest in capabilities in your country, you weaken collective capability"
European Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius emphasized the necessity for Spain to increase its defense spending to strengthen collective security during his visit to Madrid.
During his visit to Madrid, European Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius addressed the Spanish Parliament, underscoring the urgent need for increased defense spending by Spain. He pointed to the recent NATO summit where European countries committed to reaching 3.5% of their GDP on defense as a positive step forward. Kubilius argued that while the journey may not be easy, it is vital for collective defense, which relies heavily on substantial national investments in military capabilities.
Kubilius stressed that neglecting to invest in national defense capabilities not only weakens a nation but also undermines the collective security framework within which Europe operates. He firmly stated that without substantial investment, Spain could not expect to enhance its military capabilities effectively. The European Commissioner’s comments come amid growing discussions about defense expenditures in the context of the ongoing geopolitical tensions in Europe.
The implications of Kubilius’s statements are significant for Spain and the broader European Union, as they highlight a critical moment in defense policy where individual nation-states must recognize their role in reinforcing collective security. The conversation around defense spending will likely continue as nations assess their military readiness and commitment to NATO, and Spain’s decisions in this regard will be closely monitored by its European partners.