European Union member states will significantly increase defense spending in the coming years, Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković said on Thursday as EU leaders gathered for an extraordinary summit to discuss military capabilities and aid to Ukraine.
“It is clear that in the coming years, countries will invest much more in defense,” Plenković told reporters in Brussels. “Croatia has already met NATO’s requirement of spending 2% of GDP on defense. With economic growth, we will be able to meet future demands, and we are already seeing increased investments—fighter jets, tanks, and soon, the navy.”
He emphasized that these investments will contribute to the security of Croatian citizens.
EU leaders at the summit are seeking to agree on greater defense funding and additional support for Ukraine. Plenković noted that the European Commission will finalize a “white paper” on defense by the end of March, which he sees as an opportunity for Croatia’s defense industry.
On the conclusions regarding Ukraine, Plenković said that if consensus among EU leaders is not reached, an alternative plan would involve European Council President António Costa issuing conclusions supported by member states that agree.
Regarding Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s stance, Plenković acknowledged that while Hungary is an EU member, it has held a fundamentally different position on Ukraine since the beginning of the war. “Perhaps that stance has become more pronounced after political changes in the U.S.,” he added.
Plenković also addressed reports of a potential ammunition production facility in Croatia, confirming that discussions are ongoing but that it is too early to disclose details.
Discussing Bosnia and Herzegovina, Plenković reiterated Croatia’s support for the country’s territorial integrity and called for pragmatic leadership. “It is time for wise and rational behavior from all leaders to find a path toward functionality,” he said.
Plenković also commented on his recent discussions with Croatian President Zoran Milanović, stating that it was important for them to communicate despite differences.
“We extended a hand twice. I cannot say we agree on everything, but it was important to assess whether there were any fundamental points of disagreement. The conversation was useful and initiated from my side,” he said.
Plenković stressed the importance of internal stability, saying that “the most stable, resilient, and well-organized nations implement reforms faster and progress more efficiently.”