Portugal, unlike Spain, rejects separate European army

Portugal is against the creation of a separate European army and instead backs strengthening and modernising its armed forces within the U.S.-led NATO alliance, the country's defence minister said, contrasting with neighbouring Spain's position.



Nuno Melo said late on Tuesday that Portugal was a founding NATO member which valued the United States, describing Washington as a fundamental transatlantic partner.



Amid doubts over U.S. President Donald Trump's commitment to Europe's security, Spain has urged the European Union to move towards creating a separate joint army as a deterrent.



NATO chief Mark Rutte has dismissed calls for a European army, arguing it would cost member states far more than the 5% of gross domestic product that NATO countries - except Spain - have agreed to spend on defence and related investments by 2035.



Madrid said it could meet its commitments by spending 2.1% of GDP.