On June 11, 2026, Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) delivered a 20-minute government statement (Regierungserklärung) to the Bundestag. It was done ahead of the European Council meeting in Brussels on June 18 and 19. The statement and debate that followed set out Germany’s positions on four agenda items :
- Ukraine and the Middle East
- EU defense
- migration coordination
- Multiannual financial framework (Mehrjähriger Finanzrahmen, or MFF) covering 2028 to 2034
Germany Backs Ukraine and Calls for Stronger EU Defense
Merz reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to Ukraine. He added that pressure on Russia must continue to stop the war and force peace negotiations. Merz also addressed the situation in the Middle East. However, specific details of the German position on that agenda item have not yet been published at the time of the Council meeting.
On defense, Merz repeated his coalition’s position that Europe must be capable of defending itself. The European Council agenda includes EU defense capacity building. It is an area where Germany has committed to significant increases in spending. That includes the €100 billion Bundeswehr special fund (Sondervermögen) approved in 2022.
What Does the EU’s Next Seven-Year Budget Mean for Germany?
The MFF 2028–2034 is the most consequential long-term EU fiscal decision since Brexit. The current framework (2021–2027) was recalibrated after the UK’s departure. The next round involves a full rebase from scratch. This matters for Germany for two reasons.
First, Germany is the EU’s largest net contributor. Under the current framework, Germany pays significantly more into the EU budget than it receives back. The MFF negotiations will set Germany’s contribution for the next seven years. The outcome will also determine funding for programs like agricultural subsidies, cohesion funds, and research programs.
Second, EU program funding for expats and businesses operating across the EU can change significantly with each MFF cycle. Horizon Europe (research funding), Erasmus+, structural funds, and programs affecting environmental standards, transport, and digital infrastructure are all subject to MFF negotiations.
NOTE: The June 2026 meeting is unliked to produce a final MFF agreement. The meeting is focused on setting the political direction, including the overall spending envelope and priority areas. The European Commission will publish a formal draft later in 2026. Subsequent legislative processes will determine the actual contribution levels and program allocations.
Germany Pushes for Stronger EU Border Controls on Migration
Migration policy coordination is also on the agenda of the June 2026 European Council. Germany has been pushing for stronger external border controls and faster returns for rejected asylum seekers. This links directly to the EU’s Pact on Migration and Asylum. The Pact entered force in 2024. Member states are still implementing it.
