Boost for German Defence Spending Could Block Hike in Debt Limits
Germany could approve a fund to boost defence spending before the outgoing parliament steps down next month, while leaving debate over state borrowing limits to new lawmakers elected on Sunday. Mainstream parties are considering a special fund for increased military spending as Germany faces a confrontational Trump administration and hostile Russia. The two moves would each require two-thirds support in parliament, meaning success could depend on the composition of small parties that will change when the newly elected lawmakers are sworn in by March 25 at the latest.
- The upcoming changes to German defence spending and debt limits pose a significant challenge for Chancellor Friedrich Merz's conservative party, which must navigate complex coalition talks and potentially obstructive parliamentarians.
- As the new parliament takes shape, it remains to be seen whether Germany will successfully implement these reforms without succumbing to factional infighting or external pressures from other EU member states.