Poland to Raise Defense Spending to 4.7%

Poland's ruling coalition plans to increase defense spending to 4.7% of GDP in 2025, up from 4.1% in 2024, which amounts to approximately 190 billion zloty ($49 billion). This proposed budget positions Poland as a leading NATO member in defense expenditure, surpassing current top spenders like Estonia and the U.S. Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasized the importance of this 'generous' spending amid ongoing security concerns due to the war in Ukraine. However, the significant increase in military expenditure may lead to a budget deficit projected at 200 billion zlotys, prompting the government to consider cost-saving measures. The proposed budget marks a substantial shift for Poland, which previously struggled to meet NATO's 2% GDP defense spending requirement. If enacted, this budget would set a new standard within the NATO alliance for defense investment.