Mon Mar 10 16:17:45 UTC 2025: ## Green Party Threatens to Block Merz’s Massive German Spending Plan

**Berlin** – Incoming German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s ambitious plan to invest hundreds of billions of euros in defense and infrastructure faces a major hurdle, as the Green Party has vowed to block the proposal. Merz, whose CDU party won the recent election, seeks to amend Germany’s strict “debt brake” rule to fund a €500 billion ($542 billion) infrastructure fund and significantly increase defense spending, citing economic stagnation and security concerns stemming from the war in Ukraine.

The proposed constitutional changes, described as historic, would exempt military spending from the debt brake’s 0.35% of GDP borrowing limit and ease spending rules for federal states and municipalities. However, the Greens, a potential coalition partner, argue the plan prioritizes tax cuts and other political aims over crucial investments in climate protection and the German economy. They have threatened to withhold their support, jeopardizing the two-thirds majority required for constitutional amendments in the Bundestag.

Green Party leaders Franziska Brantner and Katharina Droege criticized Merz’s approach, calling it an abuse of the current security situation and a “treasure chest” for political priorities. They emphasized the need for substantial investment in climate protection and economic growth, suggesting the CDU/SPD coalition instead seek support from the left-leaning Die Linke party, who have shown openness to spending rule reform.

While SPD leader Lars Klingbeil acknowledged the Greens’ concerns and promised further discussions, the looming deadline of March 18th for a Bundestag vote adds pressure. Finance Minister Jörg Kukies expressed hope for a compromise, but the Greens’ opposition underscores the fragility of Merz’s plans and highlights the significant political challenges ahead for the incoming government. Adding further complication, the far-right AfD party has already filed a legal challenge against the proposed changes. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether Merz can secure the necessary support to implement his far-reaching spending plans.

Read More