Despite rising Russian drone attacks, fewer Europeans now support increasing defense spending, according to new Polling Europe data collected between 17 and 19 September. The poll was conducted less than a week after 19 Russian drones violated Polish airspace, EurActiv reports.
Only 67% of Europeans favor boosting defense budgets — down 7 points from April 2024, which was 74%.
Regional divides remain strong:
- Central and Eastern Europe: 76% support higher defense spending
- Northern Europe: 73%
- Southern Europe: only 59%
In Italy, just 48% of respondents back increased defense budgets, while 68% in Spain do. The highest support was recorded in Poland, where 86% strongly favor greater defense funding.
Doubts over Europe’s military readiness
More than half of Europeans, which is 52%, are not confident that Europe is prepared for a prolonged military conflict with another country.
- 26% say Europe is “somewhat prepared.”
- 26% say it is “not prepared at all.”
- Only 10% expressed optimism about the continent’s readiness.
Another 29% believe Europe is “partially ready” for war.
Northern Europe is more optimistic than the South
Respondents in Northern Europe (43%) and Central Europe (46%) show greater confidence in defense readiness than those in the South (35%). Notably, Spain stands out among southern states: 47% of Spaniards believe Europe is ready, versus 42% who disagree.
Earlier, Eurocommissioner for Defense Andrius Kubilius said the Kremlin is reportedly discussing a potential invasion of NATO countries. According to him, Western intelligence agencies have evidence that Russia is considering an attack against the Alliance.
He explained that, despite Russia paying a terrible price for its gains in Ukraine, it has adapted to technological transformations and continues to produce weapons on a massive scale.