A Pragmatic Compromise Rather than Empty Words
While German Defense Secretary Boris Pistorius and Chancellor Friedrich Merz were rarely at a loss for pithy remarks last year, these have become somewhat less frequent in recent times. In a speech to business representatives in Dessau, Chancellor Friedrich Merz recently even struck an almost conciliatory tone, which was met with surprise and consternation (1). The reason is understandable: like Pistorius, he too has probably noticed how little the Bundeswehr is capable of today.
Ralph Bosshard
Sun 25 Jan 2026