Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Germany Urges France to Boost Defense Spending Amid Tensions

2/18/2026

31 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul criticized France for insufficient defense spending.
He said Paris must align its financial commitments with its calls for European sovereignty.
European NATO members pledged to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035.
Germany plans to spend over €500 billion on defense from 2025 to 2029.
Tensions between France and Germany have escalated over a next-generation fighter jet project and trade agreements.

History

Historical Context

In 2014, NATO members committed to spending at least 2% of their GDP on defense, a response to escalating global security threats. Germany plans to invest over €500 billion from 2025 to 2029, while France is also discussing defense budgets. Current tensions between Germany and France over military projects highlight the challenges of achieving European defense sovereignty, impacting collective security and unity.

1 of 2

Story summary

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul criticized France for insufficient defense spending.
He said Paris must align its financial commitments with its calls for European sovereignty.
European NATO members pledged to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035.
Germany plans to spend over €500 billion on defense from 2025 to 2029.
Tensions between France and Germany have escalated over a next-generation fighter jet project and trade agreements.

1 / 2