Germany's Parliament, the Bundestag, is voting on a historic increase in defense spending, a move that could reshape Europe's security as concerns grow over Russia's advances in Ukraine and the weakening of U.S. defense commitments to Europe.
Axar.az, citing BBC, reports that the proposal seeks to lift borrowing restrictions on defense spending beyond 1% of GDP, potentially unlocking billions for Germany’s military and a new €800 billion EU defense initiative, the "ReArm Europe Fund."
The vote is urgent, as Germany’s new parliament convenes on March 25, and opposition from far-right and far-left parties could jeopardize approval. If passed, it would signal a shift in Germany’s traditionally cautious approach to military spending, influenced by historical and economic constraints.
The move comes amid growing European concerns about self-reliance in defense, with the U.S. reconsidering its NATO commitments. Russia’s war in Ukraine has demonstrated the importance of military "mass," as Moscow has shifted its economy to war production, allowing it to sustain heavy losses while still advancing.
If Germany fails to approve the proposal, Europe may struggle to meet its security needs, and the EU’s defense plans could face setbacks. The outcome of this vote is being closely watched across the continent as Europe braces for an uncertain security future.