Germany's Shift in Security Policy: A Risk for Europe and Neighbors?

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko has warned that Germany's radical change in security and defense policies could have serious consequences not only for Europe's overall security but also for its silent neighboring countries.In a statement to the Russian press, Grushko assessed the "radical change" in Germany's military and security line and the "historic threshold" rhetoric in Berlin's policies. Grushko expressed concern over Germany's new rhetoric, which seems to leave its past responsibilities behind, and stated

All approaches are being radically revised now. It's as if 'we don't owe anyone anything, a new era has begun, Germany has paid the price for everything.' This approach is fraught with very serious consequences not only for the overall security of Europe but also for Germany's currently silent neighbors.

In April, Germany adopted its first official military strategy document, which aims to build "Europe's most powerful army by 2039." Russia was identified as the "main threat" to Germany in the document. Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov described Berlin's new military concept as "a summary of Europe's confrontational approach towards Russia" and noted that it is a factor that increases tensions.