Germany supplying weapons to Ukraine
Berlin has reacted to the Russian invasion of Ukraine with a change of course in its defence policy. Anti-tank and surface-to-air missiles from the Bundeswehr are due to arrive in Ukraine today, Monday. Europe's press discusses to what extent this marks a turning point.
Berlin overcoming mental barriers
The long overdue change of course in Germany clears the path for change in Europe, analyses L'Opinion:
“Just as Vladimir Putin started a war due to an outdated worldview, Europe was at an impasse due to Germany's outdated intellectual software. It took a long time and some effort for our German neighbours to achieve this turnaround - probably because they are committed to never forgetting that a flap of wings at home can set off a devastating tornado across the continent. ... In breaking with a taboo, Berlin is allowing Europe to change. Strengthening the EU's military and strategic autonomy - something Emmanuel Macron has advocated so often - seems justified since last week; as of two days ago, it also finally seems possible.”
Putin has lost his ally in the West
Denník N is happy about the change of stance in Berlin:
“Chancellor Olaf Scholz has announced that his country will send 1,000 anti-tank weapons and 500 surface-to-air Stinger missiles to Ukraine. This is unprecedented given Germany's previous relationship with Russia and its strict rules on exporting weapons. At the same time, the chancellor announced extensive investments in Germany's own army. In other words, Putin has lost his most loyal ally in the West, the most powerful state in Europe.”
Missiles instead of helmets
Long eyed with suspicion in the West, the Berlin-Moscow axis no longer exists, observes Star:
“The fact that Merkel and Putin could speak both German and Russian when they were alone aroused suspicion, especially in London. Putin worked hard to drive a wedge between Nato states. But after his invasion of Ukraine, the voices from Germany suddenly changed. While Berlin was mocked when it announced it would send 5,000 helmets, today the toughest measures are coming from the new German chancellor: the closure of the country's airspace, its removal from the Swift system, 1,000 anti-tank missiles, 500 Stinger missiles.”