In an about-face, Germany plans to build Europe's biggest military
Briefly

In the wake of President Trump's comments regarding NATO defense contributions, Germany's government is preparing to fundamentally alter its military spending. Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized that enhancing military capabilities is a priority, committing to provide necessary funding to make Germany a leading military force in Europe. The country plans to invest 3.5% of its GDP in defense over the next decade, a significant jump. Experts warn that changing the national perception of military force will take many years, but current circumstances demand immediate action.
"Building up our military is our top priority," said Merz. "From now on, the federal government will provide the military with as much money as it needs to ensure it becomes Europe's strongest armed force. We are Europe's most populous country and Europe's biggest economy, and nothing less should be expected from us. Our partners not only expect this - they demand it."
The German government's plan over the next decade to spend 3.5% of its GDP on defense is a bold and surprising move. But we also know that the DNA of a country takes years and decades to change.
Trump's chilling remark, 'If they don't pay, I'm not going to defend them,' has pushed Germany to significantly reconsider its military funding commitments.
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