Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has reaffirmed his commitment to increasing Spain’s defense budget to 2% of GDP by 2029, in line with NATO’s requirements, while ensuring that social welfare programs remain untouched. Addressing Parliament, Sánchez stressed the importance of strengthening Europe’s defense capabilities amid growing geopolitical uncertainties. He emphasised that while Europe must take greater responsibility for its own security, this should not come at the expense of social and environmental policies.

To balance these priorities, the Spanish government plans to broaden the definition of defense spending to include cybersecurity, counterterrorism, and border security. Additionally, Sánchez has proposed the creation of an EU-wide defense fund, similar to the COVID-19 recovery package, to help finance joint European security initiatives. However, the proposed defense budget increase has drawn criticism. Opposition leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo of the People's Party (PP) questioned the feasibility of Sánchez’s plan, arguing that the real challenge lies in the government’s economic management. Meanwhile, economist Santiago Niño Becerra has warned that increased defense spending could come at the expense of infrastructure and other public services.

Despite these concerns, Sánchez has reassured that the government will not divert funds from social programs, stating that Spain’s economic growth will sustain its defense commitments and welfare policies. As the government advances its defense strategy, the challenge will be balancing national security needs with maintaining social cohesion, while also navigating political and economic scrutiny at home and within the European Union.