Germany faces calls for military preparedness as post-war era ends

Germany is being urged to prepare for the possibility of sending its children to war, as the country transitions away from a post-war mindset and enters a new era of potential conflict.

German media reflects on the end of the post-war period in Europe, suggesting that the concept of eternal peace, which had seemed realistic and natural for so long, is now an illusion, Caliber.Az reports.

The idea of German soldiers fighting for the freedom of Ukraine, although seemingly unthinkable, cannot be ruled out. Such statements, which challenge traditional notions of Germany's military role, may serve to make the situation more predictable for Russian President Vladimir Putin.

As tensions in Europe rise, Germany's Bundeswehr will require more than just weapons and financial resources. The military needs personnel capable of defending the country in an emergency, with estimates suggesting that Germany may need at least 50,000 additional soldiers, and some figures even projecting a need for up to 90,000 more.

With discussions intensifying on military capacity, defence minister has highlighted the importance of strengthening the country’s defence forces. Similarly, foreign minister has spoken about enhancing Germany's overall defence capacity. Among the options being debated is the reinstatement of compulsory military service, a move that could significantly alter Germany’s approach to defence.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently expressed concerns that the potential deployment of European military forces in Ukraine, in any capacity, would send a clear signal to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The statement came in the wake of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's appeal to his international allies, urging the deployment of peacekeepers to Ukraine. Zelenskyy’s call highlights the ongoing need for external support in stabilizing the region amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.

Starmer’s remarks underscore the broader geopolitical implications of such a move, suggesting that any European military presence in Ukraine would serve to further escalate tensions with Russia, potentially intensifying the conflict.

As the country confronts the changing landscape of global security, it is clear that Germany’s military readiness will be a focal point of debate and policy in the coming years. The nation, once associated with peace and reconstruction, now finds itself grappling with the potential realities of conflict. 

By Vafa Guliyeva