After intense debates and political disputes, Germany’s Bundestag has passed a historic constitutional amendment, fundamentally altering the way the country finances its national defense. With a two-thirds majority, 513 members voted in favor, 207 voted against, and there were no abstentions.
The approved legislation not only lifts long-standing budget restrictions on military spending but also unlocks a €500 billion special investment fund for infrastructure and climate projects over the next 12 years. This fund is intended to modernize Germany’s roads, energy systems, and schools.
Merz: “This Is Also a War Against Our Own Country”
Friedrich Merz, the CDU chancellor candidate and one of the key architects of the package, framed the decision as essential for both national and European security. He pointed to the growing threats posed by Russia’s aggression toward Ukraine, stating, “This is also a war against our country—daily cyberattacks, supply line disruptions, arson, contract killings, espionage at military facilities, and coordinated disinformation campaigns.”
Merz emphasized the need to rebuild Germany’s defense capabilities from the ground up. “We need new strategies, high-tech weaponry, automated systems, independent European satellite surveillance, and reliable defense contracts—ideally with European manufacturers,” he added.
Pistorius: “A New Era for Germany and Europe”
In a more reassuring tone aimed at critics, Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) clarified that the intent is not to militarize the country but to ensure its safety and future stability. He stressed that the Social Democrats insisted on pairing defense borrowing with long-term infrastructure investment.
“We are entering a new era—for Europe, for Germany, for NATO, and for future generations. This is about securing the safety of our children and grandchildren. Our financing package strengthens our defense without compromising social cohesion,” Pistorius said.
AfD Launches Fierce Opposition, Questions Legitimacy
The decision has not gone without strong opposition. Several members of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party filed urgent complaints with the Constitutional Court, arguing that the outgoing Bundestag was being used to secure long-term power for the incoming government.
The newly elected Bundestag is set to convene on March 25, 2025, with AfD and The Left making up one-third of its composition—both opposing the package, albeit for different reasons.
AfD leader Tino Chrupalla criticized the move sharply: “This outgoing Bundestag is being exploited to strengthen the next federal government, because only here do they hold a majority. This process could and should have waited for the newly elected representatives,” he stated, questioning the legitimacy of the vote and the absence of Chancellor Olaf Scholz.
Final Step: Federal Council Approval
Following Bundestag approval, the legislation now moves to the Federal Council, where it must also pass with a two-thirds majority. A vote is scheduled for Friday, March 21, 2025.
