Before Thursday’s invasion of Ukraine, such a militaristic stance would have been unacceptable for most Germans. Traditionally Berlin focuses on diplomacy and dialogue, not military might, and historically there are deep economic and cultural links between Russia and Germany. Many Germans have a fondness for Russia and a fascination for its culture. So the political debate about Russia has always been diverse and nuanced, with many in Germany willing to at least attempt to understand Moscow’s view. But Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has shocked and stunned Germany’s government and German voters.
