Lindner Opposes Pistorius - German military warns of risky tank hold-up.
Lindner is reluctant to provide Pistorius with additional funds for the military forces in the coming year, with a goal of keeping the defense budget at €52 billion in 2025.
In response to this, Pistorius clarifies to the chancellor and key parliamentarians that they are short on funds and require an additional €6.5 billion to meet the NATO target of a two percent investment in their military each year. Germany's commitment is to invest two percent of its gross domestic product (GDP) in the armed forces annually.
Nonetheless, the Lindner Administration responds through CDU budget expert Ingo Gädechens, stating that achieving a two percent budget target in 2025 doesn't necessitate an increase in the defense budget. The Ministry of Finance challenges the Ministry of Defense, claiming they have been using inaccurate data.
The conflict between Lindner and Pistorius intensifies
▶︎ The Minister of Defense emphasizes that the debt cap for federal military spending, preferred by Lindner, does not apply due to the constitutional status of defense.
▶︎ Lindner replies: "Regrettably, Mr. Pistorius is simply presenting an option of achieving security via debt." Such a situation would result in citizens being burdened with increasing interest expenses. "A superior choice would be to redirect funds from our expansive state budget and stimulate the economy."
▶︎ Pistorius denounces: "The finance minister has reacted in a hasty manner, but we will need to delve deeper into this." Additionally, alleviating the economy through more arms purchases is another viable option.
Pistorius encounters a significant challenge: he wishes to procure two new frigates for the navy, the Lithuanian brigade requires 35 new Leopard 2 tanks, and the air force needs four more Patriot air defense systems. However, there's a lack of funding for these expenses. The €100 billion special budget allotted to the military has been exhausted, and everyday expenditures and salaries are making inroads into the general budget.
Next week, Lindner and Pistorius are scheduled to meet in person. During this closed-door meeting, they will continue discussing the appropriate amount of financing the Bundeswehr will receive.
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Source: symclub.org
