SPD calls for course change: diplomacy instead of upgrading with Russia!

SPD calls for course change: diplomacy instead of upgrading with Russia!

Prominent SPD politicians are calling for a fundamental U-turn in German foreign and security policy in a new manifesto. According to a report by Südkurier , the signers urge direct diplomatic conversations with Russia the current upgrade policy. The manifesto, which contains more than 100 signatures of SPD members, was transmitted to the German Press Agency and addresses the need for de-escalation and trust formation. The criticism of the increase in defense spending, which could increase up to 5 percent of the gross domestic product.

The prominent signatories of the manifesto include ex-parliamentary group leader Rolf Mützenich, ex-party leader Norbert Walter-Borjans and foreign politician Ralf Stegner. As Tagesschau , the artists of the manifesto are open to the course of the Federal Government and the current SPD leadership. They call for an end to the stationing of new American medium -range missiles in Germany and criticize military rhetoric, which in their opinion does not contribute to security.

criticism and resistance within the SPD

The discussion about the manifesto caused outrage not only within the SPD, but also in the political landscape of Germany. Critical voices, including Union foreign politician Roderich Kiesewetter and Greens faction leader Britta Haßelmann, are horrified by the demands. SPD interior politician Sebastian Fiedler describes the proposals as irritating and disturbing and indicates that 85 percent of the SPD members support the coalition agreement of the federal government.

The SPD has had difficulty to clarify its Russian policy since the beginning of the Ukraine War. The manifesto could strengthen additional tensions for the upcoming party congress in which the party leadership is to be re -elected. FDP-European politician Marie-Egnes Strack-Zimmermann is already calling for an immediate explanation of the SPD leadership to the critical document.

political context and European security

The current political context is characterized by the continuing tensions between Russia and Ukraine since attack that was contrary to international law. According to bpb , the war in Ukraine is the most important topic for the citizens of the EU. In the discussions about upgrading and deterrence, it is becoming increasingly clear that many people also consider diplomatic solutions and arms control as necessary.

European leaders are demanding increased cooperation in security issues. EU Commission Head Ursula von der Leyen has brought a European security and defense union into conversation. But reality is difficult because the support for the military support of Ukraine in the EU member states is different. Germany is also criticized as hesitant to Ukraine, while countries like Poland continue to be strongly behind Ukraine.

The debate about security policy and the right strategy in dealing with Russia will gain intensity in the coming weeks, especially in view of the upcoming NATO summit and the SPD party congress.