Reducing Heats: Germany Prepares Troops to Face Russian Army

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius recently issued a bold statement stating the readiness of the Berlin Armed Forces to fight the Russian army if they attacked NATO member countries. In an interview with the Financial Times, Pistorius highlighted the increase in tension between Russia and NATO, stressed that Germany was now preparing to take decisive action.

Pistorius revealed that Germany has mobilized its permanent brigade in Lithuania, which is part of the eastern NATO region. “Britain, America and France are in Germany to protect our east side. Lithuania, baltic countries, and Poland are part of the east side, and we must contribute there,” he explained. This statement indicates a significant shift in the German defense policy, which previously adheres to an attitude of restraint.

In his response, Pistorius revealed that if the prevention efforts did not produce results and Russia carried out aggression, the German armed forces would be ready to take the necessary actions. He warned that defensive attitude would not apply if the real threat arose. “If Russia attacks, will that happen? Yes. But I recommend you just go to Vilnius and talk to representatives of the German Brigade. They know very well their duties,” said Pistorius.

The reaction to this statement came quickly from Kremlin. The Kremlin spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, condemned the Pistorius statement as dangerous. In a comment to the RBK Business Daily, Peskov stated, “It’s hard to believe that Pistorius really made the comment. However, unfortunately, it is so.” He added that claims about Russian threats had become a warm debate among NATO officials, but Moscow consistently denied the intention to attack the block.

Concerns about the potential for this conflict deeper, given the latest developments in the Russian military power. On June 9, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that Russia increased its military capacity, including tanks and other military vehicles. In the next five years, Russia is expected to be able to use direct military power of NATO.

The statement by the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyi also added concern. On June 24, he confirmed that the threat of Russian aggression to NATO member countries became more apparent, and suggested that the alliance prepare to test its strength in the near future.

This tension led to a greater discussion about its position in Europe, where many countries felt threatened by Russian aggressive actions recently. Germany, as the main pillar in the NATO alliance, must be proactive in ensuring the safety of its members in Baltic and Eastern Europe.

In the midst of this geostrategic change, rhetoric raised by military and political leaders in Western Europe shows a new awareness of the threats faced. With Russia which is often seen as a threat, NATO countries must consider the right strategy in protecting territorial integrity and maintaining regional stability.

This development shows alarming dynamics in Europe, which had experienced a major war in the past. The decision made now by NATO countries, including Germany, can form the direction of foreign policy in the coming years. At the same time, the global community continues to monitor this situation attentively, considering the impact is not only limited to Europe, but also in a wider world security and political scheme.