Germany’s parliament has voted to allow a significant increase in defence spending, marking a historic shift for the country. The move, which requires a two-thirds majority, will exempt defence spending from debt rules and create a €500bn infrastructure fund.
The vote, approved by 513 lawmakers, marks a significant departure from Germany’s traditionally cautious approach to defence spending. The law will allow spending on defence that exceeds 1% of GDP to no longer be subject to borrowing limits, enabling the country to invest in its armed forces.
The decision comes as Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine continues, and President Donald Trump has signaled an uncertain commitment to NATO and Europe’s defence. Germany’s move is seen as a response to these concerns and aims to strengthen the country’s military capabilities.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called the vote “excellent news,” while Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen described it as “fantastic news for all Europeans.” The measure also includes €500bn for German infrastructure, which will be used to repair roads and bridges and support climate change measures.
The move is expected to have a significant impact on European defence, potentially leading to the creation of a new European defence community. Friedrich Merz, who proposed the changes and is set to become Germany’s new chancellor, described it as “the first major step towards a new European defence community.”
Germany’s decision has been welcomed by Ukraine, which will benefit from the €3bn in aid that can now be released without being affected by debt rules.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c62z6gljv2yo