German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul announced Germany’s support for U.S. President Donald Trump’s call to increase NATO members’ defense spending target to 5% of their individual GDP. This decision comes after NATO chief Mark Rutte proposed a plan for members to increase defense spending to 3.5% of GDP, with an additional 1.5% for wider security-related matters.
Wadephul stated that the 5% target demanded by President Trump is necessary, and Germany is following suit. Trump has been pushing for higher defense expenses from NATO members, with some countries like Poland committing to reaching 5% of GDP in the coming years.
In 2024, Germany spent around 2% of its GDP on defense, according to NATO estimates. Chancellor Friedrich Merz noted that a 1% increase would represent around 45 billion euros ($50 billion). The next NATO summit, where decisions on higher defense spending targets could be made, is scheduled for late June.
Germany’s new government has been focusing on defense and military matters, with changes to debt rules enabling higher defense spending. Merz emphasized the goal for Germany and Europe to be strong enough to not need to use their weapons. He also pledged to make the German military the strongest in Europe and take on more responsibility in NATO and Europe.
Wadephul met with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the NATO foreign ministers meeting, where they discussed foreign policy matters. Wadephul highlighted the close alignment between Germany and the U.S. in foreign policy, with the U.S. expressing satisfaction with Germany’s achievements.
Overall, Germany’s commitment to increasing defense spending aligns with Trump’s demands and signals a shift towards a stronger military presence in Europe. The upcoming NATO summit will be crucial in determining the future of defense spending among member countries.