Germany is back, says Friedrich Merz after historic deal on defence and spending

Germany's conservative leader clinches an major financial agreement ahead of a crunch vote in parliament.

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Merz, who aims to lead a government with the Social Democrats in the coming weeks, is in a rush to push through a big boost in spending on defence and creaking infrastructure.

After winning elections last month, he said it was his absolute priority to strengthen Europe because President Donald Trump appeared indifferent to its fate.

After 10 hours of talks with the Greens, he said the deal sent a clear message to his country's allies: "Germany is back."

He added: "Germany is making its major contribution to defending freedom and peace in Europe."

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvgd3d427kqo

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