Germany’s Greens Oppose Merz’s Debt Brake Reform and Spending Plan

The Green Party rejects the proposed €500 billion fund and defense spending exemptions, demanding greater focus on climate and economic investments.

Friedrich Merz, Germany’s likely next chancellor, has proposed easing constitutional debt limits to allow increased defense spending and a €500 billion infrastructure fund.
The Greens have vowed to block the plan, criticizing it as a 'treasure chest' for political priorities like tax cuts rather than meaningful investment in climate protection and economic growth.
Merz’s proposal requires a two-thirds majority in parliament, making Green Party support crucial to its passage before the newly elected Bundestag convenes later this month.
Green leaders have expressed openness to discussing security and defense reforms but demand guarantees that infrastructure investments align with Germany’s climate goals.
Negotiations between the CDU, SPD, and Greens are ongoing, with all sides expressing hope for a compromise ahead of the March 18 parliamentary vote.