Chancellor Merz Outlines Vision for Bundeswehr as Europe’s Leading Military Force

On May 14, 2025, Chancellor Friedrich Merz addressed the Bundestag outlining plans to make the Bundeswehr Europe’s strongest conventional army.

This announcement follows Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine and Germany’s ongoing commitment to NATO and transatlantic coordination with the US.

Merz pledged sustained financial resources, a new voluntary national service, and reforms overcoming past underinvestment and constitutional spending limits.

He affirmed that the federal government will allocate all necessary funding to strengthen the German military until it ranks as the most powerful conventional force in Europe.

This commitment implies Germany will take increased responsibility for continental defense amid escalating threats, reinforcing support for Ukraine and European peace.