Germany Rearms: Ukraine War Ends Era of Military Cuts

Germany is launching its biggest military modernization since the Cold War. This shift ends decades of shrinking defense spending after the fall of the Soviet Union. The change is a direct response to Russia's war in Ukraine. It also follows long-standing pressure from the United States for European nations to spend more on their own defense. A special 100-billion-euro fund has been created to upgrade the armed forces, known as the Bundeswehr. Plans include buying advanced fighter jets, modern battle tanks, and new naval vessels. German leaders call this a "turning point." For years, the country's post-World War II identity was built on diplomacy and restraint. Now, it is committing to being a major military power within Europe and NATO.