Pistorius urges not to overestimate Putin's nuclear warnings.
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius does not view Russian President Vladimir Putin's nuclear weapon threats as escalating the situation: "We shouldn't be swayed by every statement he makes." Pistorius shared these thoughts at a gathering for NATO's nuclear planning group.
According to Pistorius, Putin engages in a unique style of "waging this hybrid war": one moment he threatens, the next he entices, then he acts annoyed, and finally he becomes aggressive once more. Germany and NATO must adapt and continue their backing of Ukraine and their own defense and deterrence in response.
NATO's Secretary General, Jens Stoltenberg, aimed to chat with the defense ministers, in his viewpoint, "concerning the adjustment of nuclear capabilities to the current security landscape." Before the meeting, he mentioned "notable progress" due to the US modernizing their nuclear arsenal in Europe.
In addition, Stoltenberg mentioned the Netherlands' plan to provide its first F-35 jets for "nuclear sharing." This implies that European allies may potentially drop US nuclear weapons with fighter aircraft in an emergency. US nuclear arms are stored at the Buchel Air Base in the Eifel, Germany.
Pistorius also applauded NATO's plan to enhance coordination of weapons supplies to Ukraine and the training of Ukrainian soldiers between the US and Europe. This would enhance the support for Kiev's efforts, he emphasized.
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Pistorius acknowledges Putin's use of hybrid warfare that includes nuclear threats, enticements, and aggression in his confrontations. Despite Putin's nuclear warnings, Pistorius emphasizes the importance of Germany and NATO remaining committed to supporting Ukraine and their own defense strategies.
