For the second time in this parliamentary term, the Federal Cabinet met at the Ministry of Defence. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte attended the meeting as a guest. The meeting focused on security and defence issues. The Cabinet adopted several decisions aimed at strengthening the Bundeswehr and making society more resilient.

The Minister of Defence and the NATO Secretary General also took part in the subsequent press conference. In his statement, Chancellor Merz also addressed the topics discussed at the meeting and emphasised that Germany was pressing ahead with its security policy. “This is what is needed in a global context in which we, as Europeans, must and want to take responsibility quickly and decisively for ensuring our freedom, our security and also our prosperity”, said Merz.

The Cabinet meeting was also held in preparation for the upcoming NATO summit, which will take place in Ankara on 7 and 8 July. The meeting follows on the discussions held last week in Berlin with counterparts from France, the United Kingdom, Italy and Poland within the E5 format and coordination with US President Donald Trump. 

The most important points in brief:

• Key decisions taken by the Defence Cabinet: In order to strengthen the armed forces, the Cabinet has approved a draft bill designed to speed up the development and expansion of infrastructure for the Bundeswehr. Further, the law on strengthening the reserves is intended to ensure that reservists are ready for deployment and increase their numbers. The agreed key parameters for the reform of the security and contingency laws are intended to ensure the population and the armed forces are provided for, even in the event of a crisis.
• Greater responsibility for Euro-Atlantic security: The forthcoming NATO summit should send a message of unity and strength. Europeans want to take on increased responsibility for Euro-Atlantic security and reduce unhealthy transatlantic dependencies, according to Merz. This includes increasing defence spending to 3.5 per cent of gross domestic product. “We want greater cooperation, both transatlantic and European”, said Chancellor Merz.
• Continued support for Ukraine: “In Ankara we want to continue to send a message of support for Ukraine”, the Federal Chancellor emphasised in his statement. The Federal Government is proposing that the European NATO member states make a new funding commitment to Ukraine. This is intended to send a signal to Russia to enter into peace talks. Furthermore, the Federal Government would like to help bring about a lasting peace between the US and Iran.

Read the transcript of the press conference here: (in German only)