2025 Federal Election: Party Demands for Defense Policy

The upcoming 2025 Bundestagswahl reveals significant divergences among political parties regarding defense and military policies. Recent geopolitical developments, including Russia's invasion of Ukraine and growing tensions in the Middle East, have prompted a reassessment of Germany's defense strategies.

The Social Democratic Party (SPD) emphasizes continued support for Ukraine, advocating for both military and humanitarian assistance while stressing that arms deliveries should be executed with caution. The SPD opposes the provision of Taurus missiles to Ukraine, citing concerns over potential escalation with Russia. Furthermore, the party insists on the necessity of ensuring that any negotiations regarding Ukraine's future occur with Ukrainian involvement.

The Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its Bavarian counterpart, the CSU, echo a commitment to supporting Ukraine. However, their stance on military aid, particularly regarding the Taurus missile system, remains less explicit. They assert the importance of exploring credible security guarantees for Ukraine while also pushing for expanded sanctions against Russia.

The Green Party positions Russia as a major threat to European security and supports a robust military response, including the provision of more extensive sanctions against Moscow. They advocate for a democratic approach to Ukraine's aspirations for EU and NATO membership, ensuring that no decisions are made without Ukraine's participation.

The Free Democratic Party (FDP) calls for a transformative approach to security policy, emphasizing the urgent need for military support for Ukraine. They advocate for immediate delivery of the Taurus missile system and propose a collaborative funding strategy for Ukraine that involves NATO and EU partners.

The Alternative for Germany (AfD) takes a markedly different stance, advocating for a neutral Ukraine outside NATO and EU affiliations. They propose to enhance economic ties with Russia and call for lifting sanctions that they believe hinder cooperative relations.

The Left Party firmly opposes any military solutions to conflicts, advocating instead for humanitarian aid and diplomatic efforts to reach a ceasefire in Ukraine. They reject arms exports and propose a significant restructuring of the Bundeswehr to focus on defensive capabilities devoid of offensive military operations.

For the BSW (a political alliance led by Sahra Wagenknecht), the focus is on promoting peace and dialogue rather than military engagement. They advocate for immediate cessation of arms supplies to both Ukraine and Israel, calling for a more diplomatic approach to international conflicts.

As the election approaches, it is evident that defense policy will be a critical issue, with varying perspectives influencing the parties' platforms. The debate will likely reflect broader concerns about national security and Germany's role in international conflicts.