France and Germany are on the verge of conflict over the distribution of 150 billion euros that the European Union plans to invest in the defense industry.
These funds will be allocated to increasing weapons production, but the question remains whether to purchase arms only from European manufacturers or also from external countries.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz advocates for involving partners such as the United Kingdom and Turkey in this project. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron insists on prioritizing European manufacturers, which benefits Paris, as France has the largest defense industry in the EU, covering the production of all major types of weapons.
Brussels is concerned that disagreements between the countries may slow down the implementation of the initiative, recalling previous instances when France called for restrictions on military products from third countries. The European Commission is expected to prepare the final proposal within 10 days, taking into account the positions of key players.
