European self-assertion and willingness to defend

The motion addresses the new EU budget for 2028 to 2034 (Multiannual Financial Framework). Europe faces major challenges from the war in Ukraine, uncertain US security guarantees, and economic pressure from China. The EU budget should therefore be increased to 1.26 percent of the EU’s economic output to enable joint investment in defense, climate action, research, and infrastructure. New revenue sources, such as a tax on large tech companies or a financial transaction tax, are intended to finance the increase without placing an excessive burden on member states. Germany should take responsibility early and actively in the negotiations so that an agreement is reached by the end of 2026.