German Minister Seeks Debt Brake Exemption for Ukraine Aid
Development Minister Reem Alabali Radovan is seeking a constitutional debt brake exemption to prevent further cuts to civilian funding for Ukraine.
German Development Minister Reem Alabali Radovan is seeking an exemption from Germany's constitutional debt brake to sustain civilian funding for Ukraine. Speaking in Bangkok during International Monetary Fund and World Bank meetings, Alabali Radovan warned that current support levels are unsustainable due to ongoing budget cuts for development assistance.
Funding for Ukraine within the development ministry's budget has declined significantly, falling to approximately 330 million euros this year from 750 million euros in 2023 and 670 million euros in 2022. Alabali Radovan stated that the Russian attacks are "more severe than ever," leading to increased deaths and destruction.
While Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul supports the proposal, the request faces opposition within the governing Christian Democratic Union. Some members of the party oppose further borrowing exceptions beyond those already granted for defense spending. Alabali Radovan, a member of the Social Democrats, also expressed support for Chancellor Friedrich Merz's call for other nations to increase their contributions to Ukraine's stability.
