The NATO summit is set to take place on June 24-25, 2025, in The Hague, amid rising geopolitical tensions, particularly due to the ongoing war in Ukraine and threats from Russia.

Spain has requested an exemption from NATO's proposal to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP, complicating discussions at the upcoming summit.

This request comes as the U.S. pressures NATO for a unanimous agreement among member states on increased defense spending, highlighting internal divisions within the alliance.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has labeled the proposed increase to 5% as 'unreasonable,' arguing it would necessitate tax hikes and cuts to public services.

Experts attribute Spain's cautious defense spending stance to its high political fragmentation, significant public debt, and cultural distance from Russia.

The summit will also feature a dinner with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, although he will not participate in the main discussions.

Consensus among all 32 NATO member states is required for any agreement on new spending guidelines, making Sánchez's rejection potentially disruptive.

The debate over defense spending reflects growing tensions among NATO members, with some advocating for increased budgets while others express concerns about the economic impacts.

Spain's opposition is part of a broader sentiment among several NATO countries, including Canada, Italy, and Portugal, that are also struggling to meet the 2% spending threshold.

The division within NATO underscores differing regional priorities, with Central and Eastern European countries focused on immediate threats from Russia, while Southern European nations like Spain prioritize Mediterranean issues.

Spain, along with Italy and Portugal, argues that extending the deadline for increased spending would allow the defense industry more time to adjust to heightened demands.

Czech President Petr Pavel has previously urged the U.S. to allow Europe more time to manage its own security and prevent an aggressive stance from Russia.