Potential New Defense Fund Considered by Union Ahead of Bundestag Elections

The Union party is contemplating the establishment of a new special fund dedicated to defense expenditures, as indicated by Thorsten Frei, the Parliamentary Manager of the Union faction. This proposal comes in light of rapidly changing foreign policy dynamics and an increasingly volatile security environment.

Frei emphasized the necessity for swift decisions in foreign and security policy, particularly given the current geopolitical climate. He clarified that this initiative differs from broader discussions regarding potential reforms to the debt brake, advising against a general overhaul in that area. He argued that any new funding mechanism should be strictly confined to foreign and security policy issues.

This discussion is particularly relevant as the far-right AfD and the left-wing Linke parties may obstruct any attempts to reform the debt brake or establish a new special fund, as such measures require a two-thirds majority in both the Bundestag and Bundesrat. In response to these challenges, CDU leader Friedrich Merz has initiated talks with the SPD, Greens, and FDP to explore what legislative actions can be taken before the current Bundestag concludes its term at the end of March.

In a related context, Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has called on the Union to support an exemption from the debt brake to facilitate an increase in the federal defense budget. The need for a robust military budget is underscored by the current security threats facing the country, and the Union's potential actions could significantly shape Germany's defense strategy moving forward.