Belgium had planned to spend 2 percent of GDP on defense by 2029 – the norm agreed upon by NATO countries. However, De Wever had already announced earlier that the 2 percent norm must be achieved more quickly, with Defense Minister Theo Francken moving to June this year. “2029 is far too late. We have woken up in a world where Europe needs to rearm much faster,” said the prime minister.

“We must first look with the government at what the possibilities are. We are sure that we need to make an effort, but with what Ursula von der Leyen is putting on the table, it will be possible without causing too much damage in other departments,” said De Wever.

He refers to the Commission’s plan to provide additional fiscal space for defense spending, among other things. However, he also calls for caution, as relaxing budgetary rules should not become a habit. “If exceptions are granted, it must happen within a manageable timeframe. Otherwise, I fear you are heading towards a Europe of far too much debt, which then has to be solved with new debt, thereby seriously burdening your future generations and also not being prepared for future crises.”