Croatia and United States Reaffirm Strategic Defense Partnership
Croatia and the United States have reaffirmed their strategic defense partnership during the first official meeting with new U.S. Ambassador Nicole McGraw, focusing on regional security, Ukraine support, and major military modernization projects.
ZAGREB — Croatia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Ivan Anušić and Chief of the General Staff Lieutenant General Tihomir Kundid held their first official meeting with newly appointed U.S. Ambassador Nicole McGraw on Friday, underscoring the continued strength of Croatian-American defense ties.
The introductory meeting at the Ministry of Defence focused on the evolving security environment in South-East Europe, ongoing support for Ukraine, and long-term modernization efforts of the Croatian Armed Forces.
Strategic Relationship Confirmed
Minister Anušić welcomed Ambassador McGraw and emphasized the depth of the bilateral defense partnership.
“The United States is Croatia’s most important strategic partner in defense and security. Cooperation within NATO and the U.S.-Adriatic Charter remains essential for the stability of South-East Europe,” Anušić said.
Both sides highlighted years of successful cooperation through joint exercises, training programs, and international missions, noting that interoperability between the two militaries has steadily increased.
Modernization and Key Procurement Programs
A major portion of the discussion centered on the transformation and modernization of the Croatian Armed Forces. Anušić outlined ongoing procurement priorities, including:
- Bradley infantry fighting vehicles
- UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters
- HIMARS rocket artillery systems
It was confirmed that HIMARS deliveries are scheduled for 2028, marking a significant capability upgrade for Croatia’s land forces.
The meeting also addressed future defense spending targets. Croatia plans to meet NATO’s recommended benchmarks by 2035, aiming for:
- 5% of GDP allocated to total defense spending
- 3.5% of GDP directly for defense
- 1.5% of GDP for dual-use capabilities
Support for Ukraine Remains Firm
Discussing Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine, Minister Anušić reaffirmed Croatia’s position:
“Ukraine, resisting Russian aggression for almost four years, is defending the whole of Europe. Croatia will continue to support Ukraine, as it has done so far.”
He also expressed appreciation for the Minnesota National Guard, whose soldiers participated in the Croatian military parade held in Zagreb on 31 July 2025.
Shared Commitment to Regional Security
Both delegations agreed that close U.S.–Croatian cooperation is vital for regional stability and for strengthening Croatia’s defense posture. They expressed mutual interest in continued engagement and further development of the bilateral strategic partnership.
