New survey shows Europeans support higher defense spending
Stockholm, June 23 (Hibya) – Faced with an unpredictable Donald Trump and Russia, Europeans are backing increased defense spending and, in some countries, the reintroduction of mandatory military service.
A survey conducted in 12 countries for the European Council on Foreign Relations showed majorities in Poland (70%), Denmark (70%), and the UK (57%) favoring higher military budgets.
Support was weaker elsewhere, but substantial minorities also supported it: 47% in Germany, 46% in Spain, and 45% in France. Italy was an outlier: only 17% supported higher spending, while 57% opposed it.
In several countries, Europeans supported bringing back conscription, except among 18–29-year-olds — the group most likely to be drafted. Support was highest in France (62%), Germany (53%), and Poland (51%).
In Italy (50%), the UK (53%), Spain (56%), and Hungary (58%), opposition to the idea exceeded support.
Older people were the most enthusiastic about military service. For example, in Germany, 49% of those over 70 supported it, while 46% of those aged 18–29 were opposed.
British News Agency
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