German Chancellor Friedrich Merz provided an optimistic evaluation of his government's early performance, highlighting significant boosts in defense spending amid economic challenges. The proposed budget from 2025 to 2029 outlines record expenditures aimed at stabilizing the economy. Merz acknowledged concerns among German citizens regarding their future while conveying a positive shift in public sentiment. He emphasized the importance of expressing confidence and joy in living and working in Germany. Additionally, he defended the constitutional changes that permit higher defense spending as crucial for military capability restoration, particularly in light of geopolitical pressures.
We want to convey to all people in Germany the courage and confidence that it is worthwhile to work in our country, that it is a joy to live in Germany, and that, above all, we are very fortunate to live in a country of freedom and peace. That is a great blessing.
The previous Bundestag had already relaxed the debt brake for defense spending. Under pressure from Russia's war on Ukraine and US President Donald Trump, NATO allies pledged at their summit in The Hague to raise defense spending to an unprecedented level.
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