PM Michal: Estonia to Lead by Example with Major Defense Spending Increase

Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal arrived in Croatia on an official visit Tuesday, where he was welcomed by Prime Minister Andrej Plenković.

The two leaders discussed strengthening bilateral relations, investing in energy infrastructure, increasing defense spending — which was agreed at the last NATO summit in The Hague — and supporting Ukraine.

“Croatia, as you know, has supported increasing defense spending to 3.5% of GDP by 2035, along with an additional 1.5% increase in defense-related spending that can also be used for civil purposes,” said Plenković, adding that Croatia is currently spending around 2.1% of GDP on defense and had already planned to reach 2.5% even before NATO’s new targets were announced.

Prime Minister Michal said his country would lead by example and increase military spending significantly.

“Estonia is committed and will lead by example by investing 5.4% starting next year. It is a significant but necessary investment to counter Russia’s growing threat to Europe,” said Michal.

The Estonian leader arrived with a business delegation that he said would help strengthen ties between the two nations.