Is Germany prepared for the possibility of war? | Global Headlines

Germany’s history of war and militarization has left many citizens inherently anti-war, with a deep aversion to anything military. Last October, a peace rally in Berlin saw large crowds demonstrating against Germany strengthening its military and supplying weapons to Ukraine. Many expressed concern about the potential for a third world war and emphasized the need for peaceful solutions. However, there were signs that attitudes may be changing, with a small counter-protest showing support for arming Ukraine. A survey by Ipsos revealed that almost half of Germans are against further arms delivery to Ukraine, while 38% are in favor. Defense minister Boris Pistorius’s pledge to increase defense spending to between 3% and 3.5% of GDP has garnered support from half of Germans. Among supporters at the counter-protest was Frederika, a former pacifist whose views changed following Russia’s attack: “In the face of a dictatorship, you can’t be defenseless.” The ongoing debate highlights the complex relationship Germans have with militarization and their stance on war.

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