German Defense Minister Calls for Open Debate on US Missile Deployment

Written by Camilla Jessen

Aug.12 - 2024 10:18 AM CET

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Photo: Shutterstock.com
Photo: Shutterstock.com
The U.S. plans to station missiles in Germany.

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German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius is calling for an open debate on the planned deployment of U.S. medium-range missiles in Germany

The U.S. intends to station Tomahawk cruise missiles and other missile systems in Germany starting in 2026, with the capability to reach Russia.

Pistorius argues that this deployment is necessary to address the growing threat posed by Russia and to close the current capability gap in Europe’s defenses.

He emphasized that, until Europe develops its own solutions, the support of U.S. military assets is necessary to ensure the continent's security.

Despite the urgency of the security situation, Pistorius is facing resistance, even from within his own party.

As reported by n-tv, SPD politicians such as Rolf Mützenich are warning of a possible escalation due to the stationing of these weapons.

Ralf Stegner and other members of the SPD Left have also expressed concerns about further rearmament and called for the party base to be included in the discussion.

However, Pistorius defends his position, emphasizing that his primary duty is to protect the population from external threats. He stressed that there is no "sharp opposition" within the SPD, but rather that the debate is being conducted constructively.