Most Germans doubt military’s ability to defend country, poll shows

Only 17% of Germans believe the country’s armed forces would be able to defend the nation in the event of war, according to a new survey cited by Bild.

The poll, conducted by the Insa institute, found that 72% of respondents lack confidence in the Bundeswehr’s ability to repel a military attack.

Public concern about a potential Russian attack has, however, eased over the past year. The survey showed that 38% of respondents now view Russia as a serious threat, down from higher levels recorded in autumn 2025.

At the same time, worries over hybrid threats remain elevated, with two-thirds of those surveyed citing cyberattacks, sabotage and disinformation campaigns as key security concerns.

A separate poll conducted in August 2025 found that 59% of Germans said they would not be willing to take up arms to defend their country, while only 16% said they would definitely do so.