BERLIN (FN) In a historic move, Germany announced Wednesday it is mobilizing its armed forces on a scale not seen since World War II, citing the growing threat posed by Russia\u2019s war in Ukraine. The decision marks a dramatic shift in German defense policy, long defined by restraint and reliance on NATO allies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Chancellor Olaf Scholz declared that Germany \u201cmust rise to the challenge of our time,\u201d unveiling plans to deploy tens of thousands of troops, modernize weapons systems, and expand defense spending beyond NATO\u2019s 2 percent target. The mobilization, he said, is necessary to ensure Europe\u2019s security as Russia intensifies its aggression.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The announcement comes amid mounting fears that Russia\u2019s war could spill beyond Ukraine\u2019s borders. German officials pointed to recent Russian missile strikes near NATO territory and cyberattacks targeting European infrastructure as evidence of Moscow\u2019s widening campaign.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For decades, Germany has avoided large\u2011scale military operations, haunted by its wartime past. The decision to mobilize represents a profound break with that tradition, signaling Berlin\u2019s willingness to take a leading role in European defense. \u201cWe cannot afford hesitation,\u201d Scholz said. \u201cOur allies and our people expect us to act.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The mobilization plan includes reactivating reserve units, expanding training programs, and accelerating procurement of advanced weapons such as air defense systems and armored vehicles. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said Germany would also coordinate closely with NATO to strengthen deterrence along the alliance\u2019s eastern flank.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Reaction across Europe was swift. Poland and the Baltic states welcomed the move, calling it a vital step toward countering Russian aggression. French President Emmanuel Macron praised Germany\u2019s \u201chistoric courage,\u201d while urging continued unity among European allies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Russia condemned the mobilization, accusing Germany of \u201cmilitaristic hysteria\u201d and warning of consequences. The Kremlin said Berlin\u2019s decision would \u201cdestabilize Europe\u201d and vowed to respond with \u201cappropriate measures.\u201d Analysts noted that Moscow has often used such rhetoric to justify further escalation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Within Germany, the announcement sparked debate. Some lawmakers voiced concern about the costs and risks of mobilization, while others argued that failing to act would leave Europe vulnerable. Public opinion appeared divided, with polls showing both anxiety about war and support for stronger defense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The move underscores how Russia\u2019s invasion of Ukraine has reshaped Europe\u2019s security landscape. Once reluctant to invest heavily in defense, Germany now finds itself at the forefront of efforts to deter Moscow, a role that could redefine its place in the international order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As Germany prepares for its largest military mobilization in 80 years, the stakes could not be higher. With Russia pressing its campaign and NATO allies rallying to support Ukraine, Europe faces a moment of profound uncertainty and Germany has chosen to step forward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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