Germany on Wednesday unveiled its first comprehensive defense strategy since World War II, identifying Russia as the primary threat to European security and warning that Moscow is preparing for a potential confrontation with NATO.
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said Russia’s rearmament and military posture signal that it views force as a legitimate means to achieve its geopolitical goals.
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“Russia is preparing for a military confrontation with NATO and is willing to use military force to advance its interests,” Pistorius said while presenting the strategy in Berlin.
He added that Moscow is seeking to weaken the alliance by driving a wedge between Europe and the United States and expanding its sphere of influence.
The strategy combines a military doctrine with a long-term development plan for the Bundeswehr, outlining force structure, priorities and future capabilities.
The document states that Russia is already conducting hybrid operations against NATO members, including Germany, through cyberattacks, sabotage, disinformation campaigns and espionage. Such threats have become persistent and require a continuous military response, Pistorius said.
Under the plan, Germany aims to expand its armed forces to at least 460,000 personnel, including active troops and reserves, up from about 184,000 currently.
The goal, Pistorius said, is to build the strongest conventional military force in Europe. Reservists are to be more fully integrated and equipped as part of the force.
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