Germany commits to skyrocketing defense spending in response to Trump

In May 2025, Germany announced plans to significantly increase its defense spending to meet a 5% of GDP target set by U.S. President Donald Trump. This decision marked a notable shift in Germany's defense policy and came during a NATO meeting held in Turkey. The new German government, led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, aims to transform the nation into having the strongest conventional army in Europe, responding to both past criticisms and pressing geopolitical challenges. Despite the ambitious goals, some officials, including Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil, urged caution, emphasizing that the exact spending amounts would depend on agreements made at the impending NATO summit in The Hague. This announcement follows a history of German military spending challenges, particularly after lacking in meeting previous NATO commitments. Critics, including leaders from various NATO countries, have indicated that meeting these higher spending targets will be difficult, especially considering that many members struggle to fulfill the current 2% GDP guideline, illustrating the financial pressures and long-standing debates within the alliance regarding defense contributions. Germany's commitment posits potential ramifications on its military capabilities and the perceptions of its readiness, bolstered by rhetoric from both German and NATO leaders that the shift in defense spending must be realized in practical terms for the alliance's collective security.