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Germany to Boost Defense Spending, Baerbock Says
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock calls for significantly increased defense spending, emphasizing support for Ukraine and strengthening transatlantic ties.
Russian
Germany
PoliticsInternational RelationsGermany UkraineMilitary TechnologyDefense
German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr)NatoEuropean Union (Eu)Süddeutsche ZeitungUs Administration
Annalena BaerbockDonald TrumpBoris Pistorius
- What is Germany's current and planned defense budget?
- Germany has established a €100 billion special fund for the Bundeswehr to modernize its armed forces. The 2025 budget proposes €53 billion for defense spending, though this is below the requested €58 billion, and is expected to reach €80 billion by 2028.
- What are Baerbock's priorities regarding support for Ukraine?
- Baerbock emphasizes the need for greater financial support for Ukraine, particularly in defending against Russian drones, and for strengthening European defense capabilities, especially air defense. She calls for collaboration among EU nations to efficiently allocate resources and combine military strengths.
- What is Baerbock's expectation regarding the US role in supporting Europe?
- Baerbock expresses hope that the US administration will remain a reliable partner in supporting Europe and Ukraine. The increase in defense spending is linked to improving transatlantic ties and addressing security concerns within Germany and Europe.
- What is German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock's stance on defense spending?
- German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock advocates for significantly increased defense spending, stating that the 2% of GDP target is insufficient. She views this increase as crucial for strengthening transatlantic relations and bolstering European NATO contributions.
- How does Baerbock view the current geopolitical climate and the need for Western unity?
- Baerbock considers the current moment a turning point due to Trump's election victory and German coalition changes, urging Western unity to provide stronger support to Ukraine during the autumn and winter. She stresses the need for concrete actions to back up previous statements.