The head of the Munich Security Conference told the German Press Agency that a withdrawal of the US atomic bombs from Germany would have serious consequences for security in Europe: “In terms of security policy, we will pull the carpet from under the Poles’ feet if Germany pulls out of nuclear deterrence . “
Poland could then insist on the stationing of atomic bombs on its territory, warned Ischinger. “An active Polish role in NATO’s nuclear deterrent would in turn have consequences in Moscow that I don’t even want to think about,” he said. “My guess is that the consequences would be catastrophic. NATO would move even closer to Russia in terms of nuclear power. ” Far too little thought is given in the German discussion.
It is estimated that 20 US atomic bombs are still stationed at the Büchel Air Force Base in Rhineland-Palatinate, which are to be dropped by Bundeswehr fighter jets in an emergency. Both the party and parliamentary group leadership of the SPD and the Greens have campaigned for the withdrawal of these nuclear weapons in the past. This would mean that Germany would withdraw from NATO’s nuclear deterrent. The issue will play a role in the coalition negotiations.
SPD parliamentary group leader Rolf Mützenich had only last weekend criticized statements by the outgoing Defense Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer (CDU), who had admitted German participation in NATO’s nuclear deterrent. He accused her of turning the «escalation screw» with Russia.
About a month after the federal election, the SPD, Greens and FDP started negotiations on Wednesday about the specific details of their planned joint government work. By November 10, 22 working groups are to work out the building blocks for a coalition agreement. In the week from December 6th, the new Chancellor – presumably Olaf Scholz (SPD) – is to be elected and the new government formed. The current black and red federal government under Chancellor Angela Merkel (CDU) has been in office for so long.
Meanwhile, the parliamentary manager of the FDP parliamentary group, Marco Buschmann, once again underlined the attitude of the liberals to reject tax increases. “The FDP is always ready to talk about the relief of low and middle incomes, as the SPD and Greens would like,” said Buschmann the editorial network Germany (RND, Thursday). “But the FDP is not ready to talk about tax increases in the country with the highest taxes and duties. That was and is our attitude. “
Almost two weeks ago, the parties’ negotiators ended their explorations and presented a result paper. Thereafter, there should be no tax increases and the debt brake should be adhered to. However, tough negotiations are expected in the financing of the future coalition’s projects.