In contrast, the Greens are advocating for a comprehensive reform of the debt brake that addresses security, infrastructure, economy, and climate investments without compromising social justice.

On March 5, 2025, the CDU/CSU and SPD announced a historic agreement on a financial package that aims to address defense and infrastructure needs.

This financial package focuses on significant expenditures for defense and infrastructure, necessitating a reform of Germany's debt brake law.

The financial package includes a special fund of €500 billion for infrastructure repair and proposes loosening the debt brake specifically for defense spending.

The FDP has firmly rejected the proposed reform of the debt brake, with statements indicating they will not support special investment funds.

To pass this reform, a two-thirds majority is required in the Bundestag, which means support from either the FDP or the Greens is essential.

Despite this, FDP leaders Christian Dürr and Christian Lindner have criticized the agreement, labeling the proposed debt financing as irresponsible and cautioning against accumulating endless debt.

Greens co-fractious leader Katharina Dröge criticized Merz for contradicting his pre-election promises regarding the debt brake reform, describing his actions as shameless.

However, the current parliamentary dynamics indicate that the CDU/CSU, SPD, and Greens do not hold a two-thirds majority, making it crucial to finalize any constitutional amendments before the new parliament is seated.

Friedrich Merz, leader of the CDU, has shifted his earlier stance against reforming the debt brake, now emphasizing the need for increased defense funding in light of European security threats.

Tim Achtermeyer, the Greens' state leader in North Rhine-Westphalia, accused Merz and Markus Söder of neglecting pressing issues for electoral gain, which has led to a lack of funding for vital public services.

The Greens have reacted cautiously to the financial package, emphasizing the need for climate considerations in infrastructure proposals.