Germany’s Defence Minister, Boris Pistorius, issued a stark warning on Wednesday, claiming his country is ill-prepared to face the security challenges posed by potential conflicts with Russia and other geopolitical actors. Pistorius, who has been advocating for Germany to bolster its military readiness since assuming office a year ago, emphasised the urgency of addressing the nation’s capacity to fight back.
“Are we seriously ready to defend this country in an emergency? And who is this ‘we’? This debate has to be had,” Pistorius said during a speech at a military academy in Hamburg, addressing trainee soldiers.
He pointed out that the traditional postwar pacifism in Germany has made defence discussions more challenging, but insisted that they are crucial for the nation’s resilience.
The German politician highlighted the evolving role of the Bundeswehr in the face of shifting security challenges and stressed that peace in Europe is “no longer an irrefutable certainty”.
He noted that Germany must play a more active role in security policy, including military involvement.
“Germany is a stronger and more active player in security policy, including militarily,” he said, echoing concerns expressed by other European and NATO figures about the necessity of preparing for potential conflicts.
In response to the increased security threats, the German Ministry of Defence announced plans earlier this week to allow foreigners to join the German army. Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the Bundeswehr has been actively recruiting to meet its target of 20,000 additional troops.
Pistorius also called for a public debate on the reintroduction of compulsory military service, which was abolished in Germany in 2011. He acknowledged that this move would require the support of the majority of voters and mentioned that the ministry is exploring relevant models from other countries.
Benjamin Tallis, a senior research fellow at the German Council on Foreign Relations, commended Pistorius for understanding Germany’s national interests and responsibilities to its allies. However, he noted that Pistorius faces limitations while working under Chancellor Olaf Scholz, whose administration has been marred by challenges such as farmers’ protests, a budget crisis, and economic struggles.
As reports circulate about the potential ousting of Chancellor Scholz by his own centre-left Social Democrats (SPD) party, Pistorius emerges as a potential successor, garnering increased popularity in recent months. The SPD’s internal divisions on security matters, including disagreements over providing military support to Ukraine, have further complicated Scholz’s position.
