Germany’s Increase in Military Spending
Germany, the largest economy in Europe, plans to boost its defense budget to 3.5% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) over the next five years, aligning with a new NATO target for basic military spending. This increase comes as Germany seeks to strengthen its armed forces due to growing threats from Russia and pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump.
Currently, Germany’s defense spending is at 2.4% of GDP. The upcoming budget, to be presented today, will allocate €95 billion for defense in 2025, including €62 billion from the regular budget, €24 billion from a special fund created by the previous government, and €9 billion to support Ukraine.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has successfully convinced parliament to approve changes to the country’s strict “debt brake,” enabling additional military expenditures.
United Kingdom’s Commitment to Defense Spending
The UK’s Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, announced that his country will commit 5.0% of its economic output to national security by 2035. This pledge is in line with NATO’s goal of at least 3.5% of GDP for basic military needs and 1.5% for broader security elements like cybersecurity and infrastructure by 2035.
“We must navigate this era of radical uncertainty with agility, speed, and a clear sense of national interest to provide security for workers and keep them safe,” said Starmer.
Starmer committed in February to raise the UK’s basic defense spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027 and 3.0% in the early 2030s.
NATO Leadership’s Perspective
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte emphasized that spending 5.0% on defense and security is crucial to deter Russian aggression.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main goal of Germany’s defense budget increase? Germany aims to strengthen its armed forces in response to growing threats from Russia and due to pressure from the U.S.
- What is the UK’s defense spending commitment? The UK plans to allocate 5.0% of its economic output to national security by 2035.
- What is NATO’s goal for military spending? NATO aims for allies to spend at least 3.5% of GDP on basic military needs and 1.5% on broader security elements by 2035.
- Why is defense spending important according to NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte? Rutte believes that spending 5.0% on defense and security is essential to deter Russian aggression.
