The threat Germany faces from Russia is growing daily, warned André Wüstner, head of the German Armed Forces Association, calling for a much faster military buildup.
He stated that the domestic arms industry must expand its capacity and move to shift-based operations “to effectively enter a kind of war economy in case of further escalation,” in comments published by Rheinische Post.
“It’s not only Eastern Europeans who are already speaking about a pre-war phase and rapidly strengthening their defense capabilities. We must do the same now,” Wüstner said.
He also dismissed the idea that Russia under Vladimir Putin would not be ready for a confrontation with NATO before 2029, calling it wishful thinking.
“The danger already exists now—and it is growing every day,” he added.
Wüstner further argued that the behavior of U.S. President Donald Trump, whom he said could not be relied upon, combined with Europe’s military weakness, has created a “deterrence gap” that must be closed urgently.
He also noted that the war launched three weeks ago by the United States and Israel against Iran could provide an opportunity for Putin. Strengthened by increased oil revenues and reduced air defense supplies to Ukraine, Russia could intensify its attacks on infrastructure and civilian populations.
Additionally, perceptions of unstable alliances in Europe could encourage further hybrid attacks, while border violations on NATO’s eastern flank are also possible, Wüstner warned.
