Boris Pistorius Takes Charge as Pressure Mounts on Germany
Boris Pistorius has been appointed as Germany’s new defence minister, stepping in after Christine Lambrecht’s resignation earlier this week. His arrival comes amid growing international pressure for Germany to permit the transfer of German-made tanks to Ukraine, a crucial aspect of ongoing support in the conflict against Russia.
Lambrecht’s departure occurred just before a significant conference at the US military base in Ramstein, where discussions about military aid for Ukraine are anticipated. Historically, Germany has shown reluctance to supply heavy Leopard tanks, fearing that such actions could escalate the war. Furthermore, any transfer of these tanks from other nations requires Germany’s consent.
Economy Minister Robert Habeck emphasised the urgency of the situation, stating, “We must make critical decisions shortly, particularly on how we can best support Ukraine in its right to self-defence. Germany has a responsibility and important tasks ahead.”
The decision on tank supplies will be Pistorius’s top priority, as confirmed by Habeck. At 62, he has a background in military service and has served as the interior minister in Lower Saxony since 2013, working closely with the armed forces. Known for his firm approach to security, he previously ran for the leadership of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) alongside Chancellor Olaf Scholz.
In a statement prior to his formal appointment, Pistorius assured that the armed forces could depend on him, stressing the need to involve soldiers in the decision-making process. Scholz praised him as a well-experienced politician with considerable expertise in security matters.
As Scholz prepares to attend the World Economic Forum in Davos, Ukraine’s allies are urging Germany to expedite approval for tank shipments. Polish President Andrzej Duda and Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda both expressed optimism that Germany would quickly provide Leopard tanks, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
Pistorius’s personal connections have also garnered attention; he is currently in a relationship with Doris Schroeder-Kopf, the ex-wife of former Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder, who has faced scrutiny for his close ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Additionally, Pistorius was previously a member of the now-dissolved German-Russian friendship group in the Bundesrat.
Alongside addressing the tank issue, improving Germany’s defence capabilities will be a priority for Pistorius, especially after several Puma infantry tanks were recently grounded during military exercises.
