Global military spending reaches unprecedented levels since the Cold War

Published at: 01/05/2025 10:12 AM

The global defense budget in 2024 amounted to 2.718 trillion dollars, representing an increase of 9.4% compared to the previous year. This growth, the highest recorded since the end of the Cold War, was reflected in all regions, with Europe and the Middle East leading the way.

According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), the United States, China, Russia, Germany and India accounted for 60% of global spending, with a total of 1.635 trillion dollars. In Europe, investment in defense grew by 17%, driven by the conflict in Ukraine, while Russia increased its budget by 38%, according to a press release from the RT agency.

For their part, NATO countries allocated a total of 1,506 trillion to their armies, with 18 members of the alliance reaching the threshold of 2% of GDP in defense. The United States, the main taxpayer, allocated 997 billion to its military, focusing on modernizing its nuclear arsenal.

The Middle East recorded growth of 15%, with Israel increasing its budget by 65% due to the conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. In contrast, Iran reduced its military spending by 10% compared to 2023.

In Asia, China consolidated its position as the second military power in terms of spending, with an investment of 314 billion, while Japan experienced its largest increase in decades.

Mazo News Team