Germany's Coalition Government on Brink of Collapse as Parties Clash over Defense Spending

Bavarian CSU Threatens to Withdraw Support over Insufficient Defense Funding

The German government, led by Chancellor Olaf Scholz, is facing the possible collapse of its three-party coalition over a dispute about defense spending.

The Christian Social Union (CSU), the Bavarian sister party of Scholz's Social Democrats (SPD), has threatened to withdraw its support for the government if it does not commit to increasing defense spending to 2% of GDP by 2025. The CSU argues that the current level of defense spending, 1.5% of GDP, is insufficient to meet Germany's security needs in the face of Russia's aggression in Ukraine.

Scholz Warns of "Serious Consequences" if Coalition Falls

Chancellor Scholz has warned that the collapse of the coalition would have "serious consequences" for Germany. He has argued that the government needs to maintain stability in order to address the challenges facing the country, including the war in Ukraine and the energy crisis.

However, the CSU has refused to back down from its demands, and the two parties are now locked in a standoff that could lead to the collapse of the coalition.

If the coalition does collapse, it would be a major blow to Scholz's government and could lead to new elections. It would also increase uncertainty in Germany at a time when the country is facing multiple challenges.