In 2025, Germany spent more on defense than any other European country in absolute terms, RBC writes with reference to The Economist. The country’s annual military spending is expected to reach $189 billion in 2029, more than triple the figure for 2022. German authorities are even considering a return to compulsory conscription if the Bundeswehr fails to recruit enough volunteers. If Germany continues on this course, it will become a great military power by 2030, The Economist notes.
The country has pledged to use its vast military power for the benefit of all of Europe, but its military dominance, the publication warns, could eventually lead to a continental divide.
France is concerned about its neighbor becoming a major military power, a concern shared in Poland. France, in particular, may seek to reassert itself as the continent’s leading military power and “great nation,” which could provoke open rivalry with Germany and lead to internal divisions in Europe.
No other European state, as the publication writes, has such financial capabilities as Germany. However, Berlin should realize the risks and integrate its power into European military structures, and its European neighbors should clearly indicate what kind of defense integration they would like to see. Otherwise, Germany’s rearmament could well lead to a more fragmented, distrustful and weak Europe.
If Europe is divided and destabilized by internal competition, both the EU and NATO could become paralyzed. This will weaken the continent in front of Russia and China. The latter could begin to economically exploit Europe, threatening its industrial strength. It will find it difficult to defend itself, especially without the support of the United States. If the United States becomes a hostile power, it will be easier for it to manipulate Europeans.
In other words, a divided Europe will become a pawn in the game of great powers, the publication says.
In order for Berlin to expand its military power and not return Europe to an era of competition, it needs to seek greater integration with its European neighbors, The Economist concludes.
