Scholz responds to rumored conflicts with Pistorius.

Defense Minister Pistorius stirs up discussion with a comment during the controversy over Bundeswehr funding. His statement, "I don't have to do this," has sparked conjecture that the minister is weary of his duty. Now, Chancellor Scholz reassures Pistorius of his support.

In an episode of "Unter 3" on the Phoenix television channel, Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz assured his Defense Minister, Boris Pistorius, of his backing for his future plans and actions. Germany will maintain spending 2% of its GDP annually on defense in the near future, Scholz asserted, despite rumors of tensions between them.

Amidst conflicting negotiations over additional financing for the Bundeswehr, Pistorius addressed the rumors about his weariness of his office. "For the record, I'm still very passionate about this role, and don't expect me to step down soon," Pistorius said in Berlin at a conference with Lithuanian Defense Minister Laurynas Kasciunas. He also admitted to being vexed at a meeting with parliamentarians but clarified that he didn't issue any resignation threats.

"I have no idea who's the anonymous source from that meeting," Pistorius added. "Although, in a heated debate, you might say something out of frustration. I'm known for being blunt sometimes." Incidentally, Pistorius deemed his proceedings with Finance Minister Christian Lindner and his team regarding the defense budget as "extraordinarily collegial, open, and kind."

The Controversial "I don't have to do this here"

Amidst budget negotiations, Pistorius voiced his frustration over austerity measures and a lack of support from the Chancellor's office. "I don't have to do this here," the SPD politician stated at a breakfast gathering with budget and defense politicians in his ministry. Per a "Süddeutsche Zeitung" report, which cited numerous attendees, Pistorius intended his remark to not imply a potential resignation.

Pistorius has repeatedly advocated for excluding any additional defense-related expenses linked to the Russian invasion of Ukraine from the debt brake. This approach would guarantee that Germany could reliably dedicate 2% of its GDP to defense considering the threat situation. Moreover, the safety of the country should be granted a higher constitutional position than the debt brake.

Are Scholz and the SPD Undermining Pistorius?

Nonetheless, Lindner refuses to allow for any exceptions to the debt brake, and Scholz has not offered support for Pistorius on this issue as yet. According to the "Süddeutsche Zeitung," anonymous military representatives claim that Scholz and the SPD have been "allowing Pistorius to go rogue."

The German government countered these allegations, asserting the joint objective of facing the critical juncture together, rather than abandoning anyone. "The German government is tackling this change head-on," stated Deputy Government Spokesman Wolfgang Büchner. "We're not leaving anyone behind."