German Lawmakers Debate Expanding Defense Fund Amid Political Shift

Discussions are underway among German lawmakers regarding the potential expansion of the country's special defense fund. Markus Söder, head of the CSU, advocates for a new fund to signal international strength. The CDU/CSU, SPD, and Greens could theoretically pass a motion to increase the fund using additional loans, as it is anchored in the constitution and exempt from debt restrictions. CDU leader Friedrich Merz expressed reservations, stating it's "too early" for such a move. Finance Minister Jörg Kukies noted the possibility of legal changes before the new parliament convenes. The AfD, poised to be the largest opposition party, condemned the suggestion as an unconstitutional "coup," arguing the outgoing parliament shouldn't enact such significant changes.