The former commander of US land forces in Europe, General Ben Hodges, highlighted in an interview with t-online that Germany should follow Poland’s example and recognize the need to take more concrete steps beyond talking about safeguarding European states, citizens, and values. He stressed that disregarding threats will eventually have negative consequences.

Is the danger posed by Russia, China, and other aggressive countries such as Iran really comprehended across Germany? Whereas Poland is significantly strengthening its military, the Bundeswehr remains, as the Inspector General of the Army once described, „bare.”

„Aggressive leaders like Vladimir Putin only respect strength”, and Germany so far is only „conditionally” willing to take military action. According to Hodges, „political will” is needed to change this situation.

The General observed that when asked about the biggest threat, Germans often mention the climate crisis. He acknowledged that global warming is an alarming threat, but currently, the Russians are causing mass killings, and it needs to be stopped. In addition, the general emphasized that adhering to international regulations is crucial in addressing climate change, but Russia is not complying with these regulations.

„Germany can learn something from Poland, namely that much more needs to be done than just talking about protecting European states, citizens and values. You can safely ignore the threat. Sometimes it goes well for a long time, but at some point you have to pay the price.” – says commander Hodges.

„History teaches us one inescapable fact: If you want to prevent a conflict, you have to demonstrate that you will win it if you have to. Not everyone has understood that yet.” – Hodges adds. 

When Chancellor Olaf Scholz made his „Zeitenwende” speech over a year ago, everyone in the Bundeswehr knew that it was not just about funding, but what was needed was a reformation of the Bundeswehr Procurement Office in Koblenz. „However, I am optimistic that German parliamentarians and citizens can now openly discuss the war and support for Ukraine without being labeled warmongers. Such discussions and sometimes arguments are needed in an open society.” – he says.

Hodges also commented on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, expressing hope that the Ukrainian army’s spring offensive could be the beginning of the war’s end. He emphasized that the Ukrainian leaders understand that their country will never be safe as long as Russia occupies Crimea. 

Author: Patrycja Bodzek-Kurzyńska

Photo: Maciej Bednarek/Pixabay