Germany Not Intimidated by Russian Threats to Deploy intermediate-Range Weapons, Says Minister

Germany is not deterred by the threats from Vladimir Putin to deploy intermediate-range missiles should the United States follow through on its plans to deploy missiles in Europe by 2026.

This was stated by German Foreign Ministry spokesperson Sebastian Fischer during a government press conference on Monday, July 29.

“We are not intimidated by such statements,” Fischer declared. He noted that intermediate and short-range missiles have “long been developed and deployed” by Russia. “What we are planning now is a response to deter this weapon from being used against Germany or any other targets,” Fischer added.

During the NATO summit in Washington this July, it was announced that the US would strengthen the defense of its European allies to deter Russia. Starting in 2026, the US will temporarily deploy Tomahawk missiles and other long-range weaponry in Germany. This deployment will include SM-6 anti-aircraft missiles and new hypersonic weapons, which have a significantly greater range than the current ground-based systems in Europe.

In response, Vladimir Putin, during Navy Day in St. Petersburg on July 28, threatened to cancel the moratorium on the deployment of intermediate-range missiles if these plans are carried out.