Stationing of US Intermediate-Range Missiles in Germany
The stationing of US intermediate-range missiles in Germany is a rapidly rising topic on Kurzmeldungen (hib), a news service provided by the German Bundestag. The issue has sparked significant debate and concern among German politicians and the public.
Background:
- In 2019, the US withdrew from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, a landmark arms control agreement with Russia.
- Following the INF Treaty’s collapse, the US announced plans to develop and deploy intermediate-range missiles, including the ground-launched cruise missile (GLCM) and the Tomahawk cruise missile.
- Germany, along with other NATO allies, has been asked to host these missiles on their territory.
German Position:
The German government has expressed reservations about the deployment of US intermediate-range missiles on its soil. Several reasons have been cited:
- Escalation Risks: Germany fears that the presence of these missiles could increase tensions with Russia and make the country a potential target in the event of a conflict.
- Arms Control Concerns: Germany believes that the deployment of intermediate-range missiles could undermine efforts to maintain arms control and stability in Europe.
- Public Opposition: A significant portion of the German public opposes the stationing of US missiles, citing concerns about security, cost, and the potential for nuclear escalation.
US Perspective:
The US government argues that the deployment of intermediate-range missiles in Germany is necessary to deter potential aggression from Russia. The US also maintains that the missiles would enhance NATO’s defense capabilities and provide a credible threat against Russian ground forces.
Current Status:
As of March 2023, the US and Germany have not reached an agreement on the deployment of intermediate-range missiles. Negotiations are ongoing, but there is no clear timeline for a resolution.
Implications:
The issue of US intermediate-range missile deployment in Germany has significant implications for:
- German-US Relations: The debate has strained relations between the two countries, with Germany seeking reassurances from the US before making a decision.
- European Security: The deployment of these missiles would alter the security landscape in Europe, potentially increasing tensions between NATO and Russia.
- Arms Control: The issue highlights the challenges facing arms control in the post-INF Treaty era.
Conclusion:
The stationing of US intermediate-range missiles in Germany remains a contentious and unresolved issue. The German government is balancing concerns about escalation risks, arms control, and public opposition against the US’s arguments for deterrence and NATO defense. Negotiations between the two countries are ongoing, but the outcome is uncertain.
Stationierung von US-Mittelstreckenraketen in Deutschland
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