**Germany Prepares for Worst as Russia’s Military Build-Up Fears Mount**
In a move to address the growing threat of a Russian attack, Germany is planning to quickly expand its network of air raid shelters and bunkers. The country’s Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance has announced that only 580 out of the 2,000 cold war-era bunkers are currently in working order. This means that despite having a population of over 83 million people, the existing shelters would be able to house only around 480,000 people.
According to Ralph Tiesler, the head of the Federal Office, Germany needs to quickly create space for at least one million people. To achieve this, existing structures must be assessed and adapted without delay. This is because solely constructing new shelters would take too long, given the urgency of the situation.
**A Growing Sense of Urgency**
Germany’s Defense Chief Carsten Breuer has also warned that allies need to be prepared for an attack within the next four years. He expressed concerns about Russia’s military build-up and stated that “there’s an intent and there’s a build up of the stocks.” This warning comes amidst ongoing fears that Russia may attack a NATO country within the next decade.
Breuer’s comments are not isolated, as Western leaders and defense officials have been issuing increasingly dire warnings about the threat emanating from Russia. The lack of preparedness in Europe has also been highlighted by analysts and military experts.
**A Strategic Assessment**
Experts believe that Russia may launch an initial attack on a country in the Baltic Sea region, given its strategic positioning and surroundings. This includes the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad, which borders Germany and other NATO countries. As concerns about where Russia may launch an incursion into NATO territory mount, Germany’s plan to expand its air raid shelter network is becoming increasingly relevant.
**A Significant Investment**
Germany plans to spend at least 10 billion euros ($11.4 billion) over the next four years to cover civil defense needs, with a further 30 billion euros ($34 billion) allocated for the same purpose over the next decade. A detailed plan to expand the shelters and address additional civil defense needs is expected to be produced by Tiesler’s office this summer.
**A Call to Action**
As concerns about Russia’s intentions grow, Germany’s plan to prepare its citizens for a potential attack is becoming increasingly urgent. With more than 20,000 people already supporting independent journalism in the face of Russian aggression, it is clear that there is a need for reliable information and preparedness.
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