A strongly defended European economy
The president of the central government of Spain, Pedro Sánchez, has shown his firm support for the need for greater investment in defense at European level to face the threats coming from Russia and to strengthen the deterrent capacity. Sánchez has highlighted the importance of placing the defense industry at the level corresponding to the European economy to guarantee the security and protection of the continent.
The defense of the European security and defense industry
During his speech before the plenary session of the Congress of Deputies, Sánchez expressed his concern for the neglect of the European security and defense industry over time, which has generated an investment deficit of 56,000 million euros. He highlighted the shortcomings in the defense industry and the digital vulnerabilities that have emerged with the rise of artificial intelligence, even though the European economy is considerably larger than Russia’s.
The need to strengthen deterrence capacity
Sánchez has defended equal opportunities and stated that the EU must have the same capabilities as other powers, even if it is to avoid having to use them. He emphasized the importance of strengthening deterrence capacity not with the aim of being feared or starting an arms race, but to be respected and to be able to protect the European project of peace, democracy and freedom.
Increase in Spanish investment and European coordination
Sánchez has highlighted Spain’s desire to play its role as the fourth largest European economy and with the fourth largest army. He stressed the need to continue increasing defense investment, improve coordination with other European armed forces and support the initiatives of the European Commission. However, he reiterated Spain’s commitment to diplomacy and peace.
Support for European measures without escalation of the conflict
The Prime Minister has emphasized Spain’s support for the measures taken at European level to support Ukraine, making it clear that the aim is not to intensify the conflict or turn the European economy into a war economy. He stressed the importance of building on the current momentum to modernize industry and strengthen defense capabilities, with a special emphasis on smart coordination, reindustrialization and innovation.
