Pedro Sánchez, the Prime Minister of Spain, reaffirmed his commitment to increasing defense spending to meet NATO's target of 2% of GDP during a visit to Finland, where he engaged with his counterpart, Prime Minister Petteri Orpo.

The meeting highlighted the shifting security landscape in Europe, particularly in the context of the ongoing threat posed by Russia, as Finland continues its recent transition into NATO membership, achieved in April 2023.

Sánchez stated, "We are prepared to meet the 2% GDP target; we will achieve this.

Spain has increased its defense spending in the last seven years, and we are ready to fulfill our commitment to invest 2% of GDP," emphasizing the need for robust defense mechanisms amid escalating global tensions.

Later that day, Sánchez convoked all parliamentary group leaders to discuss a new security and defense strategy.

He was scheduled to meet Alberto Núñez Feijóo, the head of the Popular Party (PP).

Amid the discussions, Ione Belarra, leader of the leftist party Podemos, criticized the government's defense spending plans, accusing it of capitulating to U.S. influence and escalating military budgets under the pretext of security.

She stated that the government was jeopardizing domestic welfare by prioritizing military expenditure, asserting that such commitments were not endorsed by voters.

In Helsinki, Sánchez refrained from disclosing specific details about the funding mechanisms or timelines for the planned increases in defense spending, indicating that more information would be provided to Spanish citizens rather than leaders abroad.

He underscored the need for a unified European response to security challenges, remarking, "Defense and security are public goods in Europe and should receive a joint response with common resources."

Sánchez plans to propose not only loans but also grants to support defense spending at the upcoming European Council meeting, suggesting a model similar to pandemic recovery funds.

He clarified that his call for subsidies was aimed at supporting Eastern European and Baltic nations most affected by proximity to Russia, rather than Southern European countries.

Further meetings took place in Luxembourg with Sánchez discussing European defense strategies with Nadia Calviño, former vice president and current president of the European Investment Bank (EIB).

Both leaders acknowledged the necessity for strengthening Europe's defense and security industry through the identification of strategic projects.

Despite Sánchez's push for increased military investment, left-wing parties expressed resistance, raising concerns about potential economic repercussions and social welfare cuts resulting from escalated military spending.

Agustín Santos from Sumar warned of the inflation, economic crisis, and social spending reductions that could arise from vast increases in military budgets.

Francesc-Marc Álvaro from ERC highlighted the need for European strategic sovereignty in defense while cautioning against undermining social welfare in Europe.

Oskar Matute from EH Bildu echoed sentiments against militaristic escalation, stating, "Escalating militarism is not a viable option.” Belarra reiterated the view that increased defense spending detracts from necessary public services.

The opposition, including the Popular Party, critiqued the government’s current lack of a parliamentary majority and budgetary clarity, while some members from both PP and Podemos proposed initiatives to require parliamentary approval for any military budget increases.