Cem Özdemir proposes republican year for all

October 02, 2025 Reported by AI

Green Party politician and Federal Minister Cem Özdemir has called for a 'republican year' for all 18-year-olds. This voluntary service would be gender-neutral and offer alternatives to conscription. The idea was presented in an interview with the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung.

Sweden Announces Expansive Budget with Tax Cuts and Military Boost

September 23, 2025 Reported by AI

In a bold move ahead of next year's elections, the Swedish government unveiled an 87 billion kronor ($8.5 billion) spending package aimed at stimulating economic growth through tax reductions, increased defense allocations, and support for households and businesses. The budget, presented by Finance Minister Elisabeth Svantesson, reflects a strategic pivot to address slowing growth and geopolitical tensions, drawing on fiscal surpluses to fund the initiatives without new borrowing. This election-year bonanza is expected to influence voter sentiment amid rising concerns over inflation and security.

Sweden can shoot down Russian planes as last resort

September 29, 2025 Reported by AI

Sweden's Supreme Commander Micael Bydén has stated that Sweden has the right to shoot down Russian fighter jets violating airspace if they ignore warnings. The statement comes amid increased Russian air activity near Swedish borders. A discovery on a Russian plane highlights the risk of attacks.

Sweden Unveils Expansive Budget Ahead of Elections

September 24, 2025 Reported by AI

In a bold move to stimulate economic growth and bolster national defense, the Swedish government announced an 85 billion kronor budget package on September 22, 2025, featuring tax cuts, increased military spending, and targeted investments in infrastructure and welfare. This election-year fiscal plan, presented by Finance Minister Elisabeth Svantesson, aims to address sluggish growth amid global uncertainties, while drawing criticism from opposition parties for its potential long-term fiscal risks. The announcement comes as Sweden prepares for parliamentary elections in 2026, positioning the center-right coalition to appeal to voters with promises of prosperity and security.

Trump extends US security guarantee to Qatar

President Donald Trump has announced a major security partnership with Qatar, providing the Gulf nation with guarantees similar to those of NATO allies. The deal, signed during Trump's visit to Doha, includes $82 billion in US defense sales over 10 years. This elevates Qatar's status as a key US partner in the Middle East.

EU Advances Military Spending Plans

September 15, 2025 Reported by AI

The European Union has approved a record military spending budget for 2026, focusing on defense enhancements amid rising tensions in Eastern Europe. This decision follows recent incidents involving Russian drones in Polish airspace. Officials emphasize the need for unified defense strategies.

Germany Boosts Border Presence

September 15, 2025 Reported by AI

Germany has announced plans to strengthen its military presence on NATO's eastern border. This follows regional tensions. The move includes troop deployments and equipment upgrades.

Spahn and Weber call for European shield against Russian cyberattacks

CDU politicians Jens Spahn and Manfred Weber have presented a joint proposal for a European defense shield. It aims to use drones and other technologies to protect Europe from cyberattacks originating in Russia. The plan is discussed amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Sébastien Lecornu open to Zucman tax substitute

October 04, 2025 Reported by AI

French Armed Forces Minister Sébastien Lecornu has expressed readiness to create a substitute for the Zucman tax in the 2025 budget. Nobel Prize-winning economist Joseph Stiglitz supports France implementing the tax independently. These statements come amid debates on financing defense and reducing inequality.

Pentagon figures show ULA's Vulcan rocket costs rising

New Pentagon contract data indicates that the development of United Launch Alliance's Vulcan rocket is becoming more expensive. Figures reveal increased funding requirements for the program. This comes amid ongoing efforts to certify the rocket for national security launches.

NATO Strengthens Eastern Flank

September 15, 2025 Reported by AI

NATO has initiated the 'Eastern Sentry' operation to enhance defenses in Eastern Europe after recent airspace violations. Multiple member states are contributing resources. The operation focuses on surveillance and rapid response.

Trump plans to attend unprecedented meeting with military commanders

September 30, 2025 Reported by AI

President-elect Donald Trump is set to participate in a rare gathering of top U.S. military leaders on Tuesday. The meeting, described as unprecedented and secretive, involves Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth amid Trump's recent criticisms of military leadership. It aims to address concerns over the Pentagon's direction.