BERLIN – German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated that, in preparation for potential crisis situations or armed conflict, he personally follows the recommendations intended for the German population. According to his own words, the minister has created stockpiles of water and food, and he also explained why he uses the term "kriegstüchtig" ("capable of waging war") less frequently, a term he previously advocated as part of the debate on strengthening the country's defense capabilities.
Pistorius recalled that his previous use of this term was primarily intended to draw public attention to the deteriorating security situation in Europe and the need to strengthen Germany's defense capabilities. However, according to his statement, part of society perceived this designation as too harsh and alarming. "This word had an impact. At the time, I wanted to shake up society and emphasize that we need to do more for our defense. I wanted to convey that only those who are capable of waging war can deter an enemy. At the same time, I realized that this expression frightened some people," the minister said.
At the same time, he emphasized the importance of individual preparedness of households for extraordinary events. German authorities have long been recommending that each household have basic supplies in case of infrastructure failures, natural disasters, or other crisis situations.
The official guide for the population contains a list of recommended supplies for approximately ten days. These include, primarily, drinking water, non-perishable food, a gas stove, a portable radio, flashlights, batteries, power banks, rechargeable batteries, a first-aid kit, spare clothing, and a list of important phone contacts. The aim of these recommendations is to ensure that households are able to function even in the event of a temporary disruption of energy, water, or communication networks.
The debate about the preparedness of the civilian population has intensified in Germany in recent years, especially in connection with the deteriorating security situation in Europe, the ongoing war in Ukraine, and growing concerns about cyberattacks and potential disruptions to critical infrastructure. The German government repeatedly emphasizes that the recommendations to create stockpiles do not represent a warning of an imminent conflict, but are part of a long-term strategy to strengthen the resilience of society to various crisis scenarios. The statement by Minister Pistorius fits into a broader trend among European states, which, in addition to modernizing their armed forces, are paying increasing attention to the preparedness of the civilian population for extraordinary events and strengthening the overall resilience of the state.
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