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Portugal Boosts Defense Spending, Opposes Separate European Army

4/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Nuno Melo, Portugal's defence minister, said the country opposes a separate European army and will strengthen its NATO-aligned military, relying on the United States.
Melo said defense spending will rise to 6.12 billion euros (2% of GDP) by 2025, ahead of schedule.
Portugal has applied for 5.8 billion euros in EU loans under the Security Action for Europe to modernize frigates and drones, with deliveries by 2030.

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Story summary

Nuno Melo, Portugal's defence minister, said the country opposes a separate European army and will strengthen its NATO-aligned military, relying on the United States.
Melo said defense spending will rise to 6.12 billion euros (2% of GDP) by 2025, ahead of schedule.
Portugal has applied for 5.8 billion euros in EU loans under the Security Action for Europe to modernize frigates and drones, with deliveries by 2030.