Military Leaders Emphasize Readiness in Face of Potential Russian Aggression
In a recent interview, Generalmajor Andreas Henne, commander of the new Home Defense Division, expressed his confidence in the Bundeswehr and NATO’s preparedness to defend against a potential Russian attack. When asked if the Bundeswehr could defend Germany if it were attacked tomorrow, Henne replied, “Yes.” He emphasized that his division’s goal is to be ready to deploy within a matter of hours, stating, “My claim is `fight tonight`: We must and we will be deployable in a few hours.”
Henne also expressed his belief that NATO is capable of deterring and defending against a Russian attack. “The NATO is potent enough to deter Russia and capable of defending against an attack” he said. “400 million Europeans and 360 million Americans can defend themselves against 160 million Russians. We must not be misled.” The generalmajor stressed that NATO’s numerical superiority, as well as its military capabilities, make it a strong alliance.
Regarding the United States’ commitment to NATO, Henne expressed his confidence that the US will uphold its alliance obligations. “The Americans have significant interests in Europe” he said, noting that they maintain important military bases on the continent, which enable them to operate in Africa and the Middle East. “The US Americans need Europe.”
When asked about the status of his Home Defense Division, Henne acknowledged that progress has been made, but emphasized the need to accelerate the pace of development, particularly in terms of equipment, infrastructure and personnel. The division is tasked with defending Germany and critical infrastructure, as well as securing the deployment of NATO forces in the event of a war.