The Daily The Re-Militarization of Germany
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Jun 21, 2023 Katrin Bennhold, a Germany and Europe correspondent for The New York Times, discusses the pivotal shift in Germany’s military stance following decades of underinvestment. She explores how recent geopolitical events, particularly Russia's invasion of Ukraine, have led to a reevaluation of defense policies and national identity. The conversation reveals tensions between historical reluctance toward militarization and a newfound commitment to security. Bennhold also addresses cultural challenges and the nation's struggles in reconciling its past with a more assertive military future.
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Post-War Demilitarization
- After WWII, West Germany was initially forbidden from having a military due to distrust from Western Allies.
- This contributed to a long-lasting cultural unease about militarization.
Self-Imposed Military Decline
- Germans' distrust in their own military and the perceived lack of need after the Cold War led to decreased spending.
- This resulted in a poorly equipped, almost comical military by the 2000s.
Trade Over Defense
- Germany prioritized economic power through exports, particularly to China, and cheap Russian gas.
- This trade-focused approach reinforced the idea that a strong military was unnecessary.