Portugal opposes EU joint army plan, backs NATO role

Portugal has rejected calls for the creation of a unified European army, instead reaffirming its commitment to strengthening national defence capabilities within the framework of the NATO alliance, Defence Minister Nuno Melo said.

Speaking to a parliamentary committee on April 14, Melo stressed Portugal’s long-standing ties to the alliance and the importance of transatlantic cooperation, particularly with the United States, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media. 

"We're not in favour of a single European army," he said, adding that Portugal must continue investing in its armed forces to ensure they can carry out assigned missions within NATO.

Portugal’s position contrasts with neighbouring Spain, which has recently advocated for the European Union to move toward establishing a joint military force. Madrid has framed the proposal as a necessary deterrent amid uncertainty over U.S. President Donald Trump’s long-term commitment to European security.

However, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has dismissed the idea, arguing that building a separate European army would impose significantly higher costs on member states than current defence spending targets. NATO countries—excluding Spain—have agreed to allocate up to 5% of GDP to defence and related investments by 2035. Spain, meanwhile, has said it could meet its obligations with spending of 2.1% of GDP.

Melo noted that Portugal has already accelerated its defence spending plans, reaching NATO’s 2% benchmark in 2025—four years ahead of schedule. Defence expenditure rose to €6.12 billion ($7.22 billion) this year, compared with €4.5 billion, or 1.58% of GDP, in 2024.

Spain has also achieved the 2% target, with defence spending reaching €33.5 billion last year, marking a 44.5% increase from 2024 levels.

Looking ahead, Melo said Portugal has applied for €5.8 billion in low-cost European Union loans to further modernise its armed forces. The planned acquisitions include frigates, armoured vehicles, satellites and drones, with delivery expected by 2030 “if all goes well.”

The funding would come under the EU’s Security Action for Europe (SAFE) programme, a €150 billion initiative designed to strengthen defence capabilities, address critical gaps and support joint procurement across the bloc in response to emerging security threats.

By Sabina Mammadli