Germany Backtracks on NATO Spending Commitment: Report

Germany has reportedly removed a clause from its draft budget financing law that pledged to spend at least 2% of its GDP annually on defense, reneging on its commitment to meet NATO's defense spending target. The move has drawn criticism from the US and allies, who have long called on Germany to meet the 2% target. Instead, Germany will continue its existing National Security Strategy of meeting the target on average over a five-year period. Meanwhile, Germany has secured its largest-ever defense deal with Israel, purchasing a sophisticated missile defense system for $3.5 billion, which could draw the attention of Russia.