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Germany's Merz Proposes Defense Overhaul Amid Global Instability

12/21/2025

Summary

Story summary

Friedrich Merz told the Bundestag that Germany must reform amid global instability and will double defense spending to €378 billion by 2029.
He faces criticism for ambitious plans, including potential conscription and support for Ukraine.
A European Council meeting rejected a proposal to access €201 billion in frozen Russian assets.
Merz secured a €90 billion loan for Ukraine and promotes European sovereignty, openly challenging U.S. perspectives on democracy in Europe.

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Story summary

Friedrich Merz told the Bundestag that Germany must reform amid global instability and will double defense spending to €378 billion by 2029.
He faces criticism for ambitious plans, including potential conscription and support for Ukraine.
A European Council meeting rejected a proposal to access €201 billion in frozen Russian assets.
Merz secured a €90 billion loan for Ukraine and promotes European sovereignty, openly challenging U.S. perspectives on democracy in Europe.