Janice R. Andrews
In order to resist the impending Russian threat, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has defended a crucial deal with the United States to install long-range American missiles in Germany. Baerbock emphasized in an editorial article for the German weekly Bild am Sonntag how crucial it is to strengthen European security through calculated military spending.
“Making foreign policy today means recognizing that the principle of hope will not protect us from [Russian President Vladimir] Putin’s Russia,” said Baerbock. We are now protected by our investments in Germany, the EU, and NATO as well as in our own security and strength. This also applies to the choice to use American long-range weaponry.”
In order to protect Germany and its surrounding allies, including Poland, the Baltic states, and Finland, the minister emphasized that Germany needs “a credible deterrent” against Russia. These nations, who have direct borders with Russia, have recently seen an increase in hybrid threats.
Baerbock claimed that President Putin’s ultimate objective is to subjugate Ukraine under his rule, accusing him of continually raising tensions in reaction to peace attempts. She contended that this calls for a strong and decisive response from European countries.
US Armaments to Be Installed in Germany
The pact, which was finalized in July during a NATO meeting, calls for the US to begin stationing cutting-edge long-range missile weapons on German territory in 2026. Since the late 1990s, long-range US cruise missiles have not been returned to Germany until now. The SM-6, Tomahawk, and future hypersonic missiles, which will provide capabilities beyond what European troops can currently achieve, are anticipated to be included in the arsenal.
Berlin’s response to this calculated maneuver has been conflicting. Although several groups are in favor of the increased security, others have voiced concerns. Notably, critics have been raised by center-left Social Democrats led by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who has called for a parliamentary discussion on the matter.
By strengthening NATO’s eastern flank, the deployment hopes to significantly prevent future Russian assault. Baerbock’s demand for greater military preparedness highlights Germany’s commitment to collective defense within the NATO alliance and comes at a time of growing geopolitical tensions.
The deal between the US and Germany is a critical step towards guaranteeing regional stability and shielding allies from external dangers as Europe struggles with the persistent security concerns posed by Russia.
