(de-news.net) – Efforts to reach an agreement with the Green Party on a debt solution for defense and infrastructure have led to a potential compromise. SPD and CDU/CSU representatives said they were amenable to the Greens’ idea of expanding the definition of defense to cover funding for peacekeeping forces and intelligence agencies.

The CDU security policy expert, Roderich Kiesewetter, described the expanded defense concept as synonymous with integrated deterrence and comprehensive defense. He emphasized its scope, which includes strengthening the Bundeswehr’s capabilities, protecting critical infrastructure, civil defense, active and passive cyber defense, intelligence services, reconnaissance, and establishing civilian and military reserves. SPD representatives also showed willingness to negotiate the Greens’ initiative.

The Greens’ proposal suggests exempting expenditures exceeding 1.5% of nominal GDP for comprehensive defense and security tasks from the debt brake. This includes strengthening defense capabilities, aiding states under unlawful attack, crisis-responsive foreign aid, and supporting international peacekeeping organizations. Compared to the CDU/CSU and SPD’s approach, the Greens’ plan incorporates additional areas into the debt regulation, requiring a larger share to be funded via the regular federal budget.