Germany urges France to boost defense spending, emphasizing the need for European self-reliance. As the transatlantic relationship faces strain, Johann Wadephul, Germany's foreign minister, calls on France to match its words with actions. He highlights the importance of European sovereignty and argues that countries should back up their rhetoric with concrete measures.
The call for increased defense spending comes as European nations grapple with the uncertainty of US military support in the face of potential attacks. Nato member states committed to reaching a 5% GDP defense spending target by 2035, but progress has been slow. Wadephul criticizes France's insufficient efforts, urging the country to contribute more.
Germany has taken significant steps to enhance its defense capabilities, exempting most defense expenditures from its constitutional debt brake and allocating over €500 billion for defense between 2025 and 2029. However, France, burdened with a high debt-to-GDP ratio, lags in defense spending. The Franco-German alliance, traditionally a driving force in EU cooperation, is facing challenges.
Germany has rejected Macron's proposals for pooled debt and joint investment, and there are disagreements over the development of a next-generation European fighter jet and an EU trade deal with South American countries. Chancellor Friedrich Merz, during the Munich Security Conference, emphasized the threat of Russia and the need for mutual security commitments, even as he acknowledged the need to repair transatlantic ties.
Merz also revealed initial talks with Macron about potential nuclear cooperation, but this proposal sparked debate within Germany's ruling coalition. Wadephul, a member of Merz's party, expressed caution about Europe developing its own robust nuclear defense, citing the existing nuclear arsenals in the world. He also addressed concerns about US nuclear protection, stating that the US would likely defend Europe if necessary.
Vice-Chancellor Lars Klingbeil affirmed Germany's reliance on Nato's nuclear deterrence system and ruled out acquiring its own atomic weapons. The discussions with France on nuclear cooperation continue, but there are differing opinions within Germany's political spectrum. Senior Christian Democrat Armin Laschet warns against sending the wrong message to Washington, while Thomas Röwekamp calls for a 'European complement within Nato' to the US atomic arsenal.
