Germany Ill-Prepared for Conflict, Warns Ex-Ministerpräsident Milbradt
Lack of Defense Capabilities and Air Defense Leave Germany Vulnerable
Former Saxon CDU Minister-President and Ukraine advisor Georg Milbradt has raised concerns about Germany’s inadequate preparedness for war. Despite Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s declaration of a "Zeitenwende" (a turning point), Milbradt argues that the Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces) remains poorly equipped for self-defense.
"The Bundeswehr is hardly better placed to defend itself today than it was in 2022," warned Milbradt in an interview with Chemnitzer "Freie Presse." "It’s not just about providing funds; we must focus on acquiring military capabilities."
Milbradt highlighted Germany’s meager military assets, noting that "Germany has about 300 tanks, of which only half are probably operational." In contrast, the American forces stationed in Germany have 300 tanks ready for immediate deployment.
Moreover, Germany’s air defense system is severely lacking. "In 2011, Germany decided to abandon air defense," said Milbradt. "Since then, the civilian population has been unprotected against air attacks."
Bunker and Shelter Deficit, Lack of Protection for Civilians
Unlike Ukraine, Germany has dismantled most of its bunker and shelter systems since 1990. "The civilian population is therefore highly vulnerable to air attacks," emphasized Milbradt.
Criticisms of U.S. Approach to Russia-Ukraine Negotiations
As Sonderbeauftragter (Special Representative) of the German government for administrative modernization in Ukraine, Milbradt holds a critical view of the U.S. approach to negotiations with Russia. "The Americans have preconceived the potential Ukrainian negotiation points," he stated. "This includes no security guarantees by the U.S., no NATO membership, territorial losses, and negotiations without Ukrainian involvement."
Milbradt believes that such a stance betrays Ukraine and sends a dangerous message to other nations. "If Ukraine is abandoned by the U.S. as a victim of Russian aggression, it could lead to desperation and disappointment among the Ukrainians," he warned. "For other countries, this would convey the message that aligning with the West is futile, and that aligning with Russia at an early stage is more advantageous."
Risks of a Capitulation Scenario
Milbradt stresses the importance of avoiding negotiations that could result in Ukraine’s capitulation. "I see a risk that if the Ukrainians are undermined by America as victims of Russian aggression, their current pro-Western stance could quickly turn into desperation and disappointment," he said. "This would also lead the message to all other countries that it is not worthwhile to rely on the West, but rather to align themselves with Russia."
Call for Enhanced Military Capabilities and International Coordination
Milbradt concludes that Germany must urgently address its defense deficiencies and invest in acquiring operational military capabilities. He also advocates for closer international coordination, particularly with NATO allies, to ensure a collective defense against potential threats.
"We must not be naive," he said. "The risk of military conflict in Europe remains real, and we must be prepared to defend ourselves."
