#news #Germany #DefenseSpending
Germany’s new government’s plan to increase defense spending to meet the 2% of GDP target requested by US President Donald Trump has drawn surprise from NATO allies. Chancellor Frederick Marzal expressed the coalition government’s aim to maintain the strongest conventional military in Europe, emphasizing a commitment to security.
Mark Rutte, NATO’s chief, outlined the plan to allocate 3.5% of GDP to total defense production, with 1.5% dedicated to military expenditure and the rest for cybersecurity and other security measures to reach the 2% goal. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul voiced support for Trump’s proposal, stating Germany’s commitment to readiness.
In a meeting in Turkey, Wadephul backed Rutte’s proposal, declaring Germany’s readiness to increase security spending. However, German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil emphasized the need to balance security expenditure with other priorities, referencing agreements made at the recent NATO summit.
Former senior military officer and CDU party politician Roderich Kiseveter described the move as a “fundamental change” in an interview with Build Daily. He noted the challenges posed by the lack of main weapon systems and recruitment issues in Germany’s armed forces, highlighting the importance of the ambitious goal.
Ramesh Khatri, representative of Kansai Nepal News, commented that Germany’s historical reluctance to heavily invest in defense due to the shadows of World War II is now shifting, with the country facing a significant military spending reduction over the past decade, resulting in a decrease in tanks and artillery numbers.
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Author: MAYA | HARUTO
Posted at: May 16, 2025 3:00 am
