Following recent airspace violations by Russia affecting NATO member states, German Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil has urged the transatlantic alliance to deliver unequivocal statements to Moscow. In an interview with the Tagesspiegel, Klingbeil emphasized the seriousness of the current situation, stating he “takes very seriously what is happening right now”. He expressed expectations for direct and transparent communication within NATO forums and publicly towards Russia, suggesting Putin is actively probing for limits.
Klingbeil cautioned against dismissing the airspace incidents lightly, underscoring the need to demonstrate a departure from past naiveté and learned lessons. He emphasized the importance of projecting a firm stance toward Russia, establishing clear boundaries. He welcomed what he described as a strong signal from US President Donald Trump regarding European security and NATO’s strength.
The Finance Minister defended Germany’s significantly increased defense spending, attributing it to a period of complacency spanning two or three decades and a failure to adequately respond to Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014. He acknowledged a need to rapidly rectify past shortcomings.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz has already taken considerable steps and the current government, through constitutional amendments, has laid the groundwork for necessary reforms, Klingbeil stated. His priority is to be accountable to voters, assuring them of his commitment to ensuring the nation’s security.
Klingbeil reiterated the sentiment that Germany had been overly naive in its dealings with Putin. He stressed this error must not be repeated, asserting that Putin understands only the language of strength. This is the rationale behind the substantial investments in security and defense and the effort to strengthen Germany’s armed forces.