This Is Not A Drill with Gavin Esler

Germany rearms - Can Europe go it alone?

Mar 27, 2025

Dr. Nicolai von Ondarza, an expert from Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik, discusses Germany's historic rearmament decision, marking a pivotal shift in European defense strategies. He explores the implications of increased German military spending in response to Russian aggression and U.S. unpredictability. The conversation delves into Germany's readiness, public sentiment on military involvement, and the challenges of balancing defense with social welfare. Von Ondarza emphasizes the need for stronger European alliances amidst current geopolitical tensions.

38:35

Episode guests

Nicolai von Ondarza

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Germany's historic rearmament plan signifies a major shift in fiscal policy and military readiness in response to heightened security concerns.

The evolving relationship with the U.S. has led Germany to seek greater autonomy in defense matters amidst diverse public opinions on military involvement.

Deep dives

Shifting Fiscal Policies in Germany

Germany's approach to fiscal policy is undergoing a significant transformation as the Chancellor proposes dismantling long-standing spending caps in response to evolving security needs. This marks a historic turn away from the country's previous adherence to a balanced budget, which has defined fiscal discipline for over two decades. The new measures include establishing a substantial fund of 500 billion euros aimed at enhancing infrastructure and defense, showcasing a readiness to invest in both domestic and military needs. This change is prompted by increased security concerns, particularly following Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the geopolitical implications highlighted by the recent leaks involving U.S. defense dialogues.

Intro

2min

Germany's Historic Shift in Fiscal Policy and Defense Spending

4min

Germany's Defense Dilemma

8min

Germany's Rearmament and the Future of European Security

1min

Germany's Security Landscape

5min

Germany's Political Landscape: Balancing Defense and Welfare

7min

Germany's Defense Shift and EU Security

7min

Navigating Global Disorder and Seeking Order

2min

Could the German government’s historic vote to back a major rearmament plan prove a turning point for the whole of Europe? To discuss the German response to European security concerns, the threat of Russian aggression and an increasingly unreliable relationship with the United States, Gavin Esler is joined by Dr Nicolai von Ondarza from the Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik in Berlin.

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Written and presented by Gavin Esler. Produced by Robin Leeburn. Original theme music by Paul Hartnoll – https://www.orbitalofficial.com. Managing Editor: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. Executive Producer: Martin Bojtos. This Is Not A Drill is a Podmasters production.

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