The head of NATO calls on Germany to increase its expenditure on defense.
In an interview with local media, Jens Stoltenberg, the Secretary General of NATO, has urged Germany to increase its defense expenditure.
During an interview with the Funke media group, Stoltenberg mentioned that in the Cold War era, when Konrad Adenauer or Willy Brandt were in power, defense spending accounted for approximately three to four percent of the economic output.
“I cannot reword”
“I am aware, based on my experience leading the Norwegian government, of the challenges in allocating additional funds to defense amidst the competing needs for healthcare, education, and infrastructure.”
Germany’s defense spending pledge
After Russia initiated its attack on Ukraine, Chancellor Olaf Scholz committed to allocating €100 billion ($106.7 billion) from the 2022 budget towards military expenses. Additionally, he vowed to reach a defense spending of 2% of GDP.
In June, Scholz reiterated to the Bundestag that the German government intended to allocate 2% of GDP in 2024, marking the first occurrence in many years. This would be subject to the accuracy of the current budget and GDP forecasts.
The German government has been providing military support to Ukraine through the provision of equipment and weapons. These resources are sourced from the country’s armed forces and are funded by the government for the purpose of enhancing security capabilities.
Stoltenberg emphasizes the need to be ready for a prolonged conflict in Ukraine.
Stoltenberg, the NATO chief, emphasized that the war in Ukraine would not come to an abrupt conclusion. He stated that it is common for wars to prolong beyond initial expectations.
Stoltenberg expressed that we all desire a speedy resolution for peace.
However, we must also acknowledge that if President Zelenskyy and the Ukrainians cease their efforts to combat, their nation will cease to exist.
Stoltenberg stated that if President Putin and Russia were to disarm, peace would be achieved.
The leader of NATO expressed his certainty that Ukraine will become a member of the alliance in the future. “There is no question that Ukraine will ultimately join NATO.”
The NATO summit in Vilnius wrapped up in July, establishing a plan to provide Ukraine with lasting security assurances in order to discourage Russian aggression.
Ukraine made a commitment to enhance governmental policies, encompassing reforms in the judiciary and economy, along with efforts to enhance transparency.
kb/rc (AFP, dpa, Reuters)
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