In Germany, preparations appear to be underway for a potential conflict that could directly impact the Federal Republic much more than before. According to Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ), the Bundeswehr has initiated training programs for companies based on the newly approved German Operational Plan. This classified strategy document reportedly spans 1,000 pages and outlines critical infrastructure and buildings deemed essential for military protection.
The report highlights plan to address a potential Russian threat, focusing on defense strategies and escalation scenarios. Among the measures discussed are steps to ensure the resilience of the civilian economy during crises.
Civil servants ‘train’ companies in Hamburg
One notable aspect of the strategy involves collaboration with businesses. A recent event hosted by the Hamburg Chamber of Commerce showcased this approach, where Lieutenant Colonel Jörn Plischke offered concrete recommendations.
“For every hundred employees, train at least five additional truck drivers that you do not need,” Plischke suggested, citing the high reliance on Eastern European drivers—70% of all trucks in Germany are driven by workers from this region. He raised concerns about a potential labor shortage should war break out in Eastern Europe.
Chamber of Commerce stresses ‘resilient economy’
The Bundeswehr advises businesses to create detailed crisis management plans, including assigning specific roles to employees. Self-sufficiency measures, such as installing diesel generators or wind turbines, are also recommended. The Bundeswehr has called for similar training events to be conducted nationwide, with implementation overseen by state commands.
Malte Heyne, General Manager of the Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the importance of these initiatives, stating:
“A well-prepared and resilient economy is essential for Germany’s civil and military defense.”
Greens propose special funding for armed forces
As early elections approach, debates surrounding Germany’s military spending are intensifying. Green Economy Minister Robert Habeck is advocating for a new “special fund” to bolster military capabilities before the elections, fearing that a two-thirds majority may be unattainable if the AfD and BSW gain more seats in the Bundestag.
The “special funds” allocated since 2022 are projected to be exhausted by 2027. Habeck, along with Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, argues for exemptions from the “debt brake” to accommodate these increases. Pistorius has proposed raising the Bundeswehr’s budget to 3.5% of Germany’s GDP, equivalent to over €140 billion.
Germans against military intervention
Polls reveal mixed views among Germans regarding military spending and intervention:
50% support increasing the Bundeswehr’s budget to 3.5% of GDP, but 56% oppose cuts to social, ecological, cultural, and developmental budgets.
Less than half (46%) favor greater German involvement in international crises, with 71% supporting diplomatic measures over military action.
65% oppose Germany assuming a military leadership role within the EU.
Support for military aid to Ukraine has declined from 66% in 2023 to 57%.
CDU prepares for new interventions
Despite public hesitation, political leaders emphasize the need for Germany and the EU to assert global influence. Economy Minister Habeck recently stated:
“We must be capable of global policy-making.”
Similarly, Friedrich Merz, the opposition CDU/CSU’s chancellor-designate, added:
“Europe must be capable of global policy-making on its own.”
These remarks underscore a shared priority among Germany’s political elite: positioning the country as a global power, potentially through enhanced military means.
