French President Emmanuel Macron called on European countries to increase annual defense expenditures to at least 3 percent of GDP. the Politico It was quoted by the words of the French president on the basis of an interview with Le Figaro, who stated:
“The Russians have spent 10 percent of the GDP of defense over the past three years. We must be prepared for the next period with 3-3.5 percent.”
This is the first time that Macron has set a specific number. France is currently spending 2.1 percent of GDP on military spending, slightly higher than NATO expectations by 2 percent, which only achieved last year.
Europe is trying to respond to the new Ukrainian policy of the United States, which is increasingly focused on Russian relations. While the future of NATO is not certain, European countries aim to enhance their defense capabilities and persuade the Trump administration.
In the second half of the week, the European Union summit will be held on defense and Ukrainian issues, as military spending is expected to discuss. According to Macron, the European Union should use cohesion boxes and other unused resources.
“We need to authorize the paradise with innovative financing: joint borrowing or sources of European stability mechanisms,” he said, adding that it will initially require 200 billion euros.
Macron also indicated that France can plan a new defensive budget, although this may be difficult without a parliamentary majority. NATO is expected to raise the goal of the current defense expenses of 2 percent at the June summit, which, according to the Secretary -General of the organization, “is much higher” 3 percent.
