German military leaders urge rapid defense reforms to deter Russia

German military leaders are warning of the urgent need to accelerate defense reforms and increase industrial capacity to deter Russian aggression. General Christian Freuding, Inspector of the Army, emphasized that Germany must demonstrate military strength as soon as possible to provide a credible deterrent, noting that NATO projections suggest Russia could be capable of attacking territory by 2029.

Freuding highlighted the necessity of technological innovation and personnel development, including mandatory drone training for soldiers. He also addressed the issue of conscription, stating that while volunteerism is preferred in a free state, mandatory service may be necessary to ensure national defense.

Complementing these calls for reform, General Carsten Breuer, Chief of the German Defence Force, warned that Europe is currently failing to deter Russia in the sphere of hybrid attacks. He noted that Russia views conflict as a continuum of escalation and de-escalation rather than distinct stages. This warning follows reports of Russian-linked hybrid activities, including a drone attack involving explosives discovered at Leipzig/Halle Airport, a critical hub for NATO and Ukrainian military logistics.