NATO's push for members to spend 5% of GDP on defense has ignited fiery debates – and a new CGTN poll reveals 67.4% of global respondents see it as a dangerous escalation 🚨. With military spending already hitting $1.5 trillion (55% of the world total), critics warn this move could trigger an arms race while ordinary Europeans foot the bill 💸.
"War Machine" or Security Partner?
The poll of 6,000+ people across 5 languages found:
🌐 84.7% believe NATO acts like a "war machine"
⚖️ 73.8% fear increased global military imbalance
🇪🇺 80.1% agree with Spain's PM calling the target "disproportionate"
Taxes vs. Tanks: Europe's Dilemma
As U.S.-Europe trust frays, 76.2% predict deeper NATO divisions. Many Europeans worry about higher taxes or slashed social programs to fund defense – a tension highlighted when former U.S. President Trump threatened to reduce security commitments unless allies paid up 💥.
With 76.6% accusing America of ignoring allies' concerns, this spending fight reveals more than budget disputes – it's a stress test for global security alliances ⚡.
