German Bundestag Debates Controversial Multi-Billion Euro Defense and Infrastructure Package

Lawmakers clash over constitutional amendments to bypass debt limits, with sharp criticism of SPD and CDU's approach.

The Bundestag convened a special session to debate constitutional amendments enabling increased defense and infrastructure spending through new debt mechanisms.
The SPD and CDU propose a joint package allowing defense spending above 1% of GDP and a €500 billion infrastructure fund, bypassing existing debt limits.
The Greens and FDP criticize the SPD-CDU plan, arguing it prioritizes excessive borrowing and risks funding unrelated initiatives like tax cuts or pensions.
The AfD and Left Party oppose the session itself, claiming the outgoing Bundestag lacks legitimacy to decide such critical measures before the new parliament convenes.
SPD leader Lars Klingbeil defends the package as essential for Germany's security and economic leadership, emphasizing the interconnected need for defense and infrastructure investment.