The German Foreign Minister urged to allocate more funds for Ukraine.

Germany's Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock believes it is essential to significantly increase defense spending. The so-called target of 2%, which represents Germany's commitment to allocate an amount equivalent to 2% of its GDP for defense needs, will no longer suffice.

Baerbock made this statement while speaking at a conference organized by the Süddeutsche Zeitung, as reported by DW.

According to her, raising defense expenditures should serve as a bridge for transatlantic relations after Donald Trump's victory in the U.S. presidential elections.

Furthermore, increasing the defense budget aligns with Germany's security interests and strengthens NATO's European component.

Baerbock also emphasized a crucial phase in supporting Ukraine, which has been attacked by Russia. She pointed out the necessity for increased budget allocations to support Ukraine, particularly for defense against Russian drones.

Europe also needs to enhance its defensive capabilities, including the protection of its airspace. The minister stated that it is essential to divide tasks and combine the capabilities of the armies of EU member states.

"Now is the time for transition," Baerbock said, referring to Trump's election victory and the collapse of the governing coalition in Germany.

She urged the West to unite in providing stronger support to Ukraine in the fall and winter.

"Previously, these were just phrases. Today, they are no longer mere words. Now, they must be filled with substance," the minister emphasized.

The head of Germany's Foreign Ministry expressed hope that the U.S. administration would remain a reliable partner for Europe on this issue.

In early July, the German government approved the draft budget for 2025, which allocates 53 billion euros for defense, while Defense Minister Boris Pistorius demanded 58 billion euros. It is expected that this figure will rise to 80 billion euros by 2028.

Background. It is worth noting that recently Annalena Baerbock visited Kyiv and reaffirmed Germany's support for Ukraine's NATO membership despite Scholz's statements. 

She also announced Germany's provision of 200 million euros to Ukraine for "emergency needs" and discussed cooperation with Ukrainian colleagues in drone production.