Why is NATO boosting defence spending and can Europe afford it?
Briefly

In a noteworthy development, NATO member states have agreed to raise defense spending to five percent of their gross domestic product (GDP), a decision viewed as a major shift towards prioritizing military expenditure in light of escalating security threats, particularly from Russia. This new target, pushed by US President Donald Trump, injects billions into defense budgets, raising concerns about budgetary strains in Europe. Although previously labeled unrealistic by some politicians, the changing geopolitical landscape requires a reassessment of defense priorities, with calls also for debt relief in developing nations.
NATO member states have endorsed a new defence spending target of five percent of GDP, representing a significant shift towards increased military expenditure amid global security concerns.
European politicians previously deemed the five percent spending goal unrealistic, yet rising threats from Russia and global competition are reshaping their priorities to focus more on defense.
Challenges remain regarding how governments will manage the financial implications of the increased defense budgets, particularly given the strain on public finances across Europe.
Economists are advocating for debt relief in developing nations as an integral part of discussions surrounding the increased military spending by NATO countries.
Read at www.aljazeera.com
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