In his address to the public with the title “Strengthen everything that binds us together”, Steinmeier stated that the date of February 24, when Russia declared war in Ukraine, was a turning point and stated that the Russia-Ukraine War also dragged Germany into insecurity.
Pointing out that there are concerns about the war in Europe, there is an energy crisis, prices are rising and the successful economy model is under pressure, Steinmeier explained that they are in a period when trust in unity and democracy is damaged.
Emphasizing that Germany is not at war, Steinmeier said, “I don’t want this to change either. The expansion of the war and even nuclear tension should be prevented.” said.
‘DEEPEST CRISIS’ AFTER TWO GERMAN UNIFICATIONS
President Steinmeier, emphasizing that the public is concerned about some issues, said that the “deepest crisis” was experienced after the reunification of the two Germans in 1990.
Arguing that Russia destroyed the security order in Europe with its attack on Ukraine, Steinmeier noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin “violated international law” and “grabbed land” with his imperialist thought.
Stating that the return of the Soviet troops to their homes without firing a single shot after the reunification of the two Germanys gave great hope for a peaceful future, Steinmeier said, “I also had this hope. This was the driving force behind my work for years. However, when we look at today’s Russia, old dreams come true. There is no place. Our countries stand against each other today.” he said.
Stating that instead of dialogue and the search for something unifying, the struggle for ideology and dominance began, Steinmeier said, “This struggle will shape the future of international relations in the long run. The sad truth is this: The world is moving towards a more confrontational period even though it urgently needs cooperation. ” made its assessment.
Pointing to problems such as climate change, epidemics, hunger and migration, Steinmeier emphasized that these problems cannot be solved without international cooperation.
Pointing out that Germany was also affected by these developments, Steinmeier said, “More difficult years await us. A period against the wind begins for Germany.” said.
Stating that he relied on the strength Germany has developed in recent years to overcome this period, Steinmeier noted that his country has the experience of going through severe crises, has strong companies and research institutions, and is in a better position economically than other countries.
‘We don’t need a war mentality’
In addition to this, Steinmeier stated that his country should resist the conflicts and said, “We don’t need a war mentality, but what we need is the spirit of resistance and the strength to resist.” used the phrases.
Stating that this includes the strong German army, Steinmeier stated that Germany, a powerful country in the middle of Europe, also has a duty to contribute to the defense of the alliance.
“I assure our partners that they accept responsibility in Germany, in NATO, in Europe,” Steinmeier said. he said.
Stating that the people will experience restrictions in the future, and some already feel this, Steinmeier stated that the state will help those who cannot overcome this difficulty on their own.
Steinmeier called for the rich to contribute to the solution so that injustices do not occur in this energy crisis. (AA)