In preparation for the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara next week, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has pledged to double the country's defense budget over the next four years, addressing criticism from US President Donald Trump regarding Germany's military spending. Trump, known for his long-standing critique of NATO members' defense spending, recently labeled it as "ridiculous" and "one-sided," particularly highlighting Germany's spending as insufficient compared to other allies. However, Merz emphasized that this commitment represents the most significant effort ever made by Germany to enhance its defense capabilities, justifying the country's position as the largest member state within the European Union. Despite strained relations between the US and Europe throughout Trump's presidency, some European leaders have sought a more conciliatory approach during his current term. In 2014, NATO leaders agreed, at the US's behest, to increase defense spending to 3.5% of their respective GDPs by 2035, a rise from the previous 2% goal set by the bloc. However, disputes have arisen over several issues, including Trump's intentions towards Greenland and the US-Israeli war in Iran, which has strained relations further. Merz, in contrast to Trump's stance, recently criticized Iran for humiliating the US, leading to threats from Trump to withdraw 5,000 troops stationed in Germany. Despite these tensions, Merz announced that Germany would reach the new NATO spending benchmark set in The Hague as early as 2029, well ahead of the agreed deadline.