Global defense spending rises despite reduced US aid.
Global defense spending rose significantly in 2024. European countries increased their spending, mainly because of less US aid to Ukraine. This is the eleventh year in a row that defense spending has increased worldwide.
In 2024, global defense spending reached nearly 2.5 trillion euros. European nations were the biggest drivers of this increase, spending almost 500 billion euros. The United States decreased its military aid to Ukraine, which contributed to the rise. Spain had the largest increase in military spending. This spending is the highest in Europe since the Cold War, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute.
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Highlights
Global Defense Spending Rose
Worldwide defense spending reached approximately 2.5 trillion euros in 2024.
Europe Leads Spending Increase
European countries increased defense spending significantly, driven by US aid reduction.
Spain's Military Spending Growth
Spain had the largest increase in military spending globally in 2025.
NATO Spending Increased Rapidly
NATO countries increased defense spending at an unprecedented rate in 2024.
Weapon Investments Rise
European nations are investing more in weapons due to security concerns.
Perspectives
- Worldwide defense spending increased significantly in 2024 and 2025.
- European countries increased their military budgets.
- The rise in spending was partly due to reduced US aid to Ukraine.
- Defense spending has increased for eleven consecutive years.
US aid reduction is the primary driver of increased defense spending.
NU.nl, NOS Nieuws, New
US pressure and concerns about Russia and the Middle East are key factors.
El País