German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil has been pushing back on claims that his budget would just fill gaps, saying Germany will invest €126.7 billion (about $150 billion) in infrastructure, schools and hospitals in 2026. Klingbeil told the Bundestag that special funds would be used to secure jobs and boost growth rather than bankroll pet projects. Opposition parties have accused the coalition of piling up debt for tax breaks and pensions instead of real investment. Meanwhile, the leader of the opposition Green Party has condemned Chancellor Merz for not attending the UN General Assembly. Stay tuned for the latest news and analysis on a range of issues related to Germany from Tuesday, September 23.