Tallinn: During a state visit to Estonia on Tuesday, Polish President Andrzej Duda and Estonian President Alar Karis issued a strong call for increased defense spending in NATO, proposing a minimum of 3% of GDP. They urged allies to raise their commitments in response to growing security threats from Russia, the larger neighbor both nations share.

According to Anadolu Agency, both leaders, speaking in Tallinn, emphasized that the current levels of defense investment in Europe are insufficient in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine and the broader threat posed by "Russian imperialism." Duda reiterated Poland's formal proposal to increase NATO's minimum defense spending target from 2% to 3% of GDP, arguing that this is not just a political statement but a historically grounded necessity.

Duda highlighted that during the Cold War, NATO members consistently allocated 3% of their GDP to defense, suggesting that today's threat environment demands a similar commitment. "Three percent should be the new floor, not the ceiling," he stated, adding that Poland is already nearing 5% and is willing to support even higher targets if consensus is achieved.

Karis supported Duda's stance, noting that Estonia will reach 5% defense spending by next year, aligning with NATO's defense planning. He described this move as a long-term investment in national and collective security, urging other NATO members to follow their example.

Karis warned that insufficient investment now could lead to higher costs later. "If we don't spend enough today, we may end up spending much more when it's too late," he cautioned.

The leaders contended that stronger defense budgets are crucial not just for deterrence but also for strengthening Europe's defense industry. They advocated for revising EU regulations to permit member states to use European funds for military production and modernization. Duda stressed the importance of developing Europe's own capabilities, particularly in ammunition and heavy equipment, to reduce reliance on external suppliers.

This discussion precedes a NATO summit in The Hague this summer, where allied leaders are set to debate new defense spending targets. Both presidents expressed optimism that the 3% target would garner support across the alliance.