Friedrich Merz, head of Germany's conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and chancellor candidate for the upcoming general elections on February 23, remarked on Tuesday that Germany should focus on reaching NATO's current defense spending goal of 2% of GDP before contemplating any additional increases.

Merz pointed out an annual funding shortfall of 30 to 40 billion euros over the next three to four years to achieve this target.

Germany reached NATO's 2% defense spending goal in 2024, thanks to a special 100 billion euro fund created after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. This fund is expected to run out by 2028. Incoming U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested raising NATO's defense spending target to as much as 5% of GDP. Germany's defense spending and military preparedness have been central issues in the run-up to the general elections.

The country faces economic challenges, including a contracting economy and structural weaknesses, which have shaped political discussions.

Merz's comments highlight the significance of fulfilling existing NATO obligations amid these economic and political challenges.