The prospect of a new arms race between NATO and Russia is becoming increasingly likely as tensions escalate over military build-ups and strategic deployments. In response to NATO's intention to rearm in Germany, Moscow has announced plans to revise its nuclear doctrine. This development follows the USA's decision to station long-range weapons in Germany to protect Europe, a move supported by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and his deputy Robert Habeck.
At NATO's 75th anniversary summit in Washington, Scholz emphasized the necessity of this move, citing the significant arms build-up in Russia that threatens European territory. Habeck echoed these concerns, noting that the Russian build-up also poses a threat to NATO's eastern flank. Both leaders underscored that Russia cannot be considered a peace partner at this time.
Russia and China have both criticized NATO's actions. Russia's Foreign Ministry has threatened a military response, while China has rejected accusations of supporting Russia's aggression in Ukraine. The summit's statement on China was described by Beijing as full of war rhetoric and provocations.
In a significant development, the USA plans to station Tomahawk cruise missiles, SM-6 anti-aircraft missiles, and newly developed supersonic weapons in Germany from 2026. These systems, capable of reaching as far as Russia, are intended to bolster NATO's defense capabilities. Scholz noted that this decision aligns with Germany's National Security Strategy, which has been publicly discussed for some time.
The decision to station these weapons in Germany has revived memories of the Cold War. Scholz himself protested against the NATO double-track decision in the early 1980s, which involved the stationing of medium-range Pershing II missiles. These were withdrawn after the end of the Cold War by 1991.
Habeck stressed that the rearmament is not taken lightly but is necessary given the current threatening times. He pointed out the difference between the Cold War and the current hot war in Ukraine, where active conflict and casualties are a daily reality.
Ukraine is set to receive military aid worth at least 40 billion euros within the next year, continuing the support provided last year. NATO has assured Ukraine that its path to membership is irreversible, despite the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Moscow has responded to these developments with strong criticism. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov described the stationing of US weapons in Germany as an escalation, and Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Russia is revising its nuclear doctrine in response to perceived threats from NATO.
China has also condemned the NATO summit declaration, calling it unjustified and filled with war rhetoric. Beijing's Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian criticized the exaggeration of tensions in the Indo-Pacific region.
Amidst these geopolitical tensions, the NATO summit also saw discussions on the US election campaign. President Joe Biden's performance was closely watched, especially after doubts were raised about his fitness during a recent TV debate. The real test for Biden will be his upcoming press conference at the end of the summit.
- The USA's decision to arm Germany with long-range missiles marks a significant shift in NATO's defense strategy. These weapons are expected to enhance Europe's defense capabilities and act as a deterrent against potential Russian aggression.
- The move has sparked a strong reaction from Russia, which views the deployment as a direct threat to its security. The revision of Russia's nuclear doctrine indicates a serious escalation in the geopolitical landscape, reminiscent of Cold War tensions.
- China's criticism of NATO's actions highlights the broader implications of the alliance's decisions. The Indo-Pacific region, already a hotspot of strategic competition, could see increased tensions as a result of NATO's stance.
- The NATO summit also underscored the unwavering support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. The substantial military aid package and assurances of eventual NATO membership signal a long-term commitment to Ukraine's defense.
- The internal dynamics of the NATO summit, including discussions on the US election campaign, reflect the interconnected nature of global politics. President Biden's performance and future actions will be closely scrutinized in the context of these international developments.
