Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Germany's then-chancellor Olaf Scholz promised a significant defense transformation, termed Zeitenwende, aimed at increasing military spending and reducing energy dependence on Russia. However, a recent report highlights that this transformation has not yet led to significant changes. With newly elected Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Germany is attempting to solidify its position as a leading military power in Europe, exemplified by increased military commitments and active diplomacy with Ukraine, indicating a renewed focus on defense and international collaboration.
Friedrich Merz has vowed Germany will have the strongest conventional army in Europe and committed to substantial military spending to secure Germany's position as a leader.
The German Council on Foreign Relations indicates that two years post-Zeitenwende, meaningful change has yet to materialize in Germany's defense strategy against authoritarianism.
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