A significant majority of European Union heads of state and government have issued a statement calling on Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez to increase defense budgets and to achieve a 2% expenditure on defense 'as soon as possible' using national funds.

This demand arises amid changing security priorities for the United States, which, according to EU leaders, necessitates that Europe take responsibility for its own defense.

The statement was made prior to a council meeting where Sánchez expressed disagreement with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's terminology regarding Europe's 'rearmament'.

Sánchez criticized the term, emphasizing the need for a different narrative that focuses on enhancing European security and defense capabilities rather than militarization.

He stressed the importance of stronger connections with regional blocs and greater involvement in multilateral discussions.

Shortly after these discussions, news emerged that Sánchez is set to visit Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing within three weeks, marking his third visit to China in three years.

Government sources indicate that, in light of perceived unreliability in the United States as a partner, Spain must explore other global scenarios.

The joint statement, endorsed by 14 out of 27 EU leaders ahead of the Brussels meeting, highlighted what they termed a 'historic moment' for Europe.

The document asserted that significant changes in European security necessitate a united and proactive approach from the EU. The statement received backing from leaders of the European People's Party, including notable figures such as Alberto Núñez Feijóo and Friedrich Merz, the latter poised to be Germany's next chancellor after recent elections.

As is customary before EU summits, leaders from the center-right coalition convened to align their positions.

Among their agreements was a call to reduce bureaucracy in the defense industry, which they argue hampers efficiency and effectiveness.

The leaders also expressed clear expectations for member states regarding national defense spending commitments to align with NATO's planned goal of a 3.5% GDP expenditure, anticipated to be confirmed at the upcoming summit in The Hague in June.

Additionally, three specific points were highlighted that directly pertain to Sánchez's administration.

First, they insisted on the urgent fulfillment of a long-term commitment to invest 2% of Spain's GDP in defense.

Second, they emphasized that any increase should be financed through national means rather than relying on direct loans from the European Investment Bank or new European funding with no repayment obligations.

Finally, they stated that defense investment must be approved by national parliaments and reported to the European Commission to ensure compliance.

Notably, Spain has not submitted its 2025 budget plan to the European Commission, leading to a recent censure of Sánchez in the European Parliament, where a report on the coordination of economic policies was approved without Spain’s input.

Furthermore, there was a call for developing a credible and less dependent European defense industry, with suggestions for additional financial tools, including options for joint debt instruments focused specifically on enhancing European defense.

Following the gathering of European People's Party leaders, Feijóo addressed the media in Brussels, criticizing Sánchez for his handling of defense matters and calling for his resignation.

He asserted that Spain requires a comprehensive plan for defense and sovereignty, lamenting that Sánchez is out of touch with the responsibilities facing Europe.

Feijóo contended that Sánchez’s lack of communication with the national parliament undermines his credibility in Brussels and raises concerns about his capacity to make commitments on behalf of Spain without proper authorization.