Germany has expressed concerns over France's defense spending efforts, describing them as inadequate in a statement made by German Foreign Minister Johan Wadeful. He highlighted that while French President Emmanuel Macron emphasizes the necessity for European sovereignty, it is crucial for France to translate this rhetoric into tangible action. Wadeful's remarks underline a growing sentiment within Germany regarding the need for more substantial investment in defense by its European partners.

During an interview with Germany's Deutschlandfunk radio, Wadeful referenced the NATO goal, influenced by former U.S. President Donald Trump, which calls for member countries to allocate at least 5% of their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) towards security expenditures by 2035. He acknowledged that there has been progress among neighboring countries but stressed that stronger financial commitments are necessary from France to meet these collective goals. This plea for increased defense funding reflects broader concerns about European security and the ongoing geopolitical landscape.

Wadeful's comments also included a call for France to consider budgetary reforms, particularly within the social sector, so that it can free up resources needed to achieve essential defense objectives. This conversation indicates a shifting dynamic in European defense collaboration and highlights the urgent need for strategic alignment within NATO. As Europe faces various security challenges, the commitment to defense spending will likely remain a critical point of focus for ongoing discussions between EU countries and NATO allies.