Lindner unwilling to increase the size of the cabinet despite criticism
Lindner argued that with the agreed increase of the defense budget by an additional 1.2 billion Euro to 53 billion Euro, Germany would be significantly above the NATO quote of two percent of economic output in defense spending. "Thus, we are far beyond the defense spending of other G7 countries such as France and Italy", emphasized Lindner. Moreover, further growth is planned for the coming years. Lindner made it clear, however, that the budget would ultimately be decided by the Bundestag.
The Finance Minister also urged Pistorius to use the funds more efficiently. "By the way, we should look at making sure that we get more security and more capabilities for the Bundeswehr for each euro of tax money spent. Other countries are more effective and efficient, studies show", the FDP leader admonished.
The coalition leaders' compromise for the state budget of the coming year sees a smaller defense budget than what Pistorius demanded. The Defense Minister had requested a need of around 58 billion Euro, but the compromise only foresees 53 billion Euro. However, the defense budget is planned to reach around 80 billion Euro by the year 2028.
Pistorius expressed dissatisfaction with the plans. It's "disappointing" that he "received significantly less than requested", said Pistorius lastly. He "can't start certain things in the desired speed", as "the Zeitgeist and threat situation require", the Minister pointed out. Criticism came also from the Bundeswehr, the SPD Bundestag fraction, and the Union.
- Despite the agreed increase in the defense budget, which places Germany significantly above NATO allies like France and Italy in defense spending, some criticisms persist.
- Christian Lindner, the FDP leader, urged Boris Pistorius to use the funds more efficiently, citing examples of other countries that get more security and capabilities for each euro of tax money spent.
- The proposed defense budget for the coming year, as part of the coalition leaders' compromise, is lower than what Boris Pistorius initially demanded, causing frustration within the FDP and other political parties.
- By 2028, the defense budget is planned to reach around 80 billion Euro, representing a substantial increase from the current 53 billion Euro.
- The Federal army, along with the SPD Bundestag fraction and the Union, also joined Pistorius in expressing dissatisfaction with the current plans, arguing that the defense budget does not adequately reflect the Zeitgeist and the threat situation Germany currently faces.
- Boris Pistorius lamented that the smaller defense budget would impede his ability to implement certain measures and initiatives in a timely manner, thereby compromising the country's security.
- In historical context, Germany's defense budget, even when reached at 80 billion Euro, is significantly lower than the defense spending of Italy during World War II, illustrating the strides the country has made in prioritizing peace and diplomacy.
