Germany’s pivotal role within the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) was underscored during a commemoration marking the nation’s 70 years of membership in the alliance, held in Berlin. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte lauded Germany as “a driving force” within the alliance, emphasizing the need for continued German leadership and decisive action to strengthen NATO and ensure freedom and security both now and in the future.
Addressing the event, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius highlighted the current challenges facing NATO, stating that the alliance has not experienced such demands since the end of the Cold War. He stressed the imperative for European nations to assume greater responsibility and specifically called for Germany to lead the way. He extended gratitude to German soldiers stationed in Lithuania, referring to their presence as “pioneers of this landmark project reflecting a shift in security approach” and affirmed Germany’s broader commitment, including acting as a logistical hub for allied troop deployments and contributing to maritime security in the North Atlantic.
Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul characterized the upcoming years as presenting NATO with a “Heraclean task” drawing attention to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and its implications for European security architecture. He advocated for significant adjustments to defense spending, prioritizing areas historically considered standard. The need for a more agile, decisive and technologically advanced NATO was emphasized, noting that crucial decisions in this direction were made during the recent NATO summit and that the focus must now shift to ensuring the credibility of deterrence and military capabilities.
Speaking at the same event, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized the proximity of the conflict in Ukraine and the potential for instability, citing ongoing provocations, aggression, acts of sabotage and hybrid warfare threats targeting critical infrastructure and democratic stability. He concluded by reaffirming Germany’s commitment to defending freedom within the Euro-Atlantic space, a pledge made 70 years ago with the nation’s accession to NATO.