Spain boosts defence budget to exceed NATO 2% target, sparking left‑wing criticism

The Spanish government has increased defence spending to bring the share of the budget above the NATO target of 2% of GDP. An extra €6.287 billion was added through the contingency fund and inter‑departmental transfers, raising the defence allocation from €11.172 billion in 2018 to €35.419 billion projected for 2026. The move bypassed the Congress, using executive decisions that only require cabinet approval, and will be incorporated into the 2027 budget draft.

Opposition parties – including the centre‑right PP, Podemos, ERC, EH Bildu and BNG – have condemned the increase as a “rear‑mising” that jeopardises public finances and social spending. They argue the surge in military outlays, accelerated to satisfy NATO demands after the Ankara summit, strains the state’s fiscal balance and conflicts with the left‑wing coalition’s priorities.

Government sources say the additional funding is necessary to meet alliance commitments and modernise equipment, while officials assert that the higher defence share will not undermine the welfare state.