Fact Check: Spain Struck a Deal to Opt Out of NATO's 5% Spending Target
What We Know
Spain has officially reached an agreement with NATO to be excluded from the military alliance's target of spending 5% of its GDP on defense. This announcement was made by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, who stated that Spain would instead commit to a defense spending level of 2.1% of its GDP. The decision comes as NATO leaders prepare for a summit, and Sánchez emphasized that Spain's participation and legitimacy within NATO remain intact despite this exemption (AP News, Reuters).
In the context of NATO's spending guidelines, Spain's current military expenditure is notably low, estimated at 1.28% of GDP last year. The agreement to opt out of the 5% target was critical, especially given the political pressures from other NATO members, including the United States, which has historically pushed for increased defense spending from its allies (Reuters).
Analysis
The claim that Spain has struck a deal to opt out of NATO's 5% spending target is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The AP News report provides direct quotes from Prime Minister Sánchez, confirming the exemption and detailing the implications for Spain's defense budget. Additionally, Reuters corroborates this information, noting the political context surrounding the decision, including the pressures from U.S. President Donald Trump.
Both sources are reputable and well-established in international news reporting, providing a reliable account of the events. The AP is known for its thorough journalism, while Reuters has a strong reputation for financial and political news. The information presented aligns with the broader context of NATO's discussions on defense spending and the varying commitments of its member states.
However, it is important to note that while the agreement allows Spain to avoid the 5% target, it does not absolve the country from its obligations to increase defense spending in line with NATO's expectations. The decision reflects Spain's strategic priorities and domestic considerations, particularly in light of social spending needs (Reuters).
Conclusion
The claim that Spain struck a deal to opt out of NATO's 5% spending target is True. The evidence from multiple credible news sources confirms that Spain has been granted an exemption from this spending target, allowing it to maintain a lower defense budget while still participating in NATO. This decision reflects Spain's current economic and political landscape, balancing defense commitments with domestic priorities.
