Germany's FM backs stationing of missiles in country to address Russian threat

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has endorsed the deployment of long-distance missiles in Germany as a measure to deter Russian aggression, which she described as the foremost security threat to Germany and European peace.

Baerbock's comments come at a time of heightened debate within Germany’s three-party coalition government regarding the potential stationing of nuclear-capable US weapons on German soil, Caliber.Az reports, citing German news sources.

Dagegen müssen wir uns & unsere baltischen Partner schützen, auch durch verstärkte #Abschreckung & zusätzliche Abstandswaffen. Alles andere wäre nicht nur verantwortungslos, sondern auch naiv gegenüber einem eiskalt kalkulierenden Kreml. 2/3

— Außenministerin Annalena Baerbock (@ABaerbock) July 21, 2024

The proposal has stirred significant discussion among coalition members, reflecting concerns over the strategic balance and the country's defence posture.

This development coincides with a grim update from Ukraine, which has reported its fifth drone attack on the capital, Kyiv, amidst ongoing heavy fighting with Russia. The invasion has continued unabated, further intensifying the security situation in the region.

The push for advanced missile systems in Germany underscores the country's heightened vigilance and readiness to bolster its defensive capabilities in response to the escalating threat from Russia.