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Germany's CDU/CSU Coalition Advances with Cabinet Lineup and Defense Spending Plan

Friedrich Merz secures internal approval for a coalition pact with the SPD, activating EU fiscal flexibility for defense while awaiting SPD membership's vote ahead of his May 6 chancellorship bid.

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Overview

  • The CDU/CSU has unveiled its ministerial team, balancing regional, gender, and factional considerations to reflect party unity under Friedrich Merz's leadership.
  • A CDU congress approved a 144-page coalition agreement with the SPD, emphasizing stricter immigration controls, increased defense spending, and unwavering support for Ukraine.
  • Germany has triggered the EU Stability and Growth Pact safeguard clause, enabling defense budget flexibility from 2025 to 2028 to support a major rearmament initiative.
  • Johann Wadepuhl, a strong advocate for Ukraine, has been named Foreign Minister, underscoring the coalition's commitment to Kyiv amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
  • The SPD membership vote on the coalition agreement is pending, with Merz expected to be elected Chancellor by the Bundestag on May 6.