- Contrary to initial fears, Germany is quickly gaining independence from Russian resources
- Chancellor Olaf Scholz also announced an increase in defense spending, a more realistic foreign policy and a departure from the “pacifist taboo”
- The question is whether the rising costs related to the war and the situation in the energy sector will deprive the chancellor of social support
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Germany’s partnership relations with Russia and its dependence on Russian gas were disavowed by the war in Ukraine. It turned out not only how much Berlin was exposed to the Kremlin’s energy blackmail, but also that the import of raw materials from Russia is financing its military operations – reminds the British weekly.
However, the invasion of Ukraine has awakened the “sleeping giant” and may make it Berlin’s change of policy will lead to what will be Putin’s “personal nightmare”, a stronger and bolder Germany in a more united Europe, says the Economist.
“The good news is that the challenges (for Germany) have to be overcome. When Putin started his invasion, Germany was importing 55% of its gas from Russia. Pessimists warned that if (Russian) supplies were to disappear, German factories would close and families would be closed.” tremble with cold in their kitchens “- writes the weekly.
However, despite the restriction of gas imports from Russia Germany’s raw material reserves for winter are increasing at a normal pace. The industry announced that it could cut gas consumption much more than expected. Germany is restarting coal-fired power plants, investing in renewable energies and are likely to extend the operation of nuclear power plants. They should also lift the ban on shale gas extraction and reach for its large reserves – says the Economist.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced an increase in defense spending, a more realistic foreign policy and a move away from the “pacifist taboo”, aid for Ukraine and a thorough revision of relations with China. It is also expected to present a national security strategy soon.
See also: Germany saves energy. In public buildings, a maximum of 19 degrees in winter
Germany’s deep ties with Europe and the USA are another advantage of Germany on which to build in the future, especially as a more credible Germany will be a very attractive country for investors, the weekly lists.
However, there is a risk that support for Scholz’s policy will weaken as the costs of war and rising energy prices change voter attitudes, who so far mostly support the chancellor’s position towards Russia and Ukraine. However, if “Germany were to abandon Ukraine, it would be a tragedy for both Germany and Ukraine. It is a conflict that determines the future of the continent”, concludes “Economist”.