- Published: 03.02.2025.
Plenković: Europe must prioritise defence; Croatia has made significant progress
Europe must prioritise its defence, and Croatia has made significant progress in this area, Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković said in Brussels on Monday. "The European Union must enhance its strategic autonomy and prioritise its defence. Croatia has made great strides in this regard, reaching NATO’s target of two per cent of GDP for defence spending," Plenković said upon arrival at an informal meeting of EU leaders focused on defence issues.
He added that, beyond the two per cent allocation, 30 per cent of that budget is being invested in modernising equipment and weaponry, marking a major transition from Eastern to Western technology.This includes acquiring Bradley armoured vehicles, Leopard tanks, Rafale fighter jets, Black Hawk and Kiowa Warrior helicopters, as well as ambitious plans for investment in the navy, air defence, and unmanned aerial vehicles.
Commenting on US President Donald Trump’s announcement of potential customs tariffs on European products, Plenković said that while the European Commission has prepared countermeasures, a trade war between the US and the EU would be highly undesirable.
"So far, nothing has been concretely implemented, which is why today’s discussion will be useful in assessing our available options. I believe that a trade war between the EU and the US is in no one’s interest. However, we are closely monitoring developments, including actions concerning other countries near the US, so everyone remains on high alert," Plenković stated.
He stressed that potential US customs tariffs do not pose a major threat to the products most commonly consumed by Croatian citizens.
"What matters to us, and what is ultimately positive in President Trump’s policy, is the opportunity for increased gas exports. Croatia has invested heavily in its LNG terminal on Krk and has become a key regional hub. Thanks to these investments, supported by €580 million in EU funding, we have expanded major gas pipelines, positioning Croatia to handle future energy sources such as hydrogen," Plenković concluded.
Text: HINA