Germany to host US missiles amid growing Russia tensions

The decision to deploy American long-range conventional missile systems in Germany starting in 2026 aligns with the national security strategy adopted by the German government in October 2023.

This was confirmed by German diplomats in a statement reflecting the country's growing concerns over security threats posed by Russia, Caliber.Az reports citing Russian media.

Germany is positioning itself as a central transport hub for NATO, which, according to the diplomats, reinforces the rationale behind the missile deployment. The strategic move is seen as a response to the increasing military threat from Russia, which has significantly expanded its missile capabilities, including long-range and cruise missiles, some of which are capable of carrying nuclear warheads.

German diplomats noted that Russia has "clearly demonstrated" its readiness to use force, often disregarding international agreements.

In contrast, Russian officials have voiced strong opposition to the deployment. Russian Ambassador to Berlin, Sergey Nechaev, condemned the decision to station American Tomahawk missiles in Germany, calling it a "dangerous and counterproductive" move. Nechaev warned that such a deployment would undoubtedly escalate tensions and questioned the German government’s reasoning behind the action. He argued that it would not enhance Germany's security but rather exacerbate the risks.

The deployment, which was initially agreed upon during the July 2024 NATO summit, is part of a broader strategy that includes the "episodic deployment" of medium-range missiles such as the SM-6 and Tomahawk in Germany. The United States and Germany have outlined that the process will officially begin in 2026. This development comes in the wake of Russia's increasing militarization, particularly in the realm of precision missile technology.

Russian President Vladimir Putin had previously warned that the introduction of high-precision missile systems in Germany would lead Russia to reconsider its stance on a self-imposed moratorium on deploying medium and shorter-range strike weapons. In particular, Russia would look to bolster the capabilities of its coastal naval forces, signaling potential shifts in the region's military balance.

The decision to host American missile systems in Germany has sparked a debate on the future trajectory of NATO’s presence in Europe and the potential ramifications for security and stability on the continent.

By Vafa Guliyeva