Written By Lisa Murimi
In a landmark decision at NATO’s 75th anniversary summit, the United States announced it will begin periodic deployments of long-range missiles in Germany from 2026.
This move marks the first such deployment since the Cold War. The Tomahawk cruise, SM-6, and hypersonic missiles, which significantly out-range existing arsenals, are set to be stationed on German soil.
A joint statement by the US and Germany highlighted that these deployments, initially temporary, will likely become permanent. The deployments aim to bolster NATO’s “integrated deterrence” and encourage European nations to invest in their own long-range missile capabilities.
This development follows the collapse of the 1988 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, which previously banned such missiles. The treaty fell apart in 2019 after both the US and Russia accused each other of violations.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov condemned the move, promising a “military response” and accusing NATO and the US of escalating tensions.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius explained that the temporary US deployments would allow NATO allies to address a growing capability gap in Europe. However, the decision has faced domestic criticism, particularly from Germany’s Greens party. Sara Nanni, the party’s spokeswoman on security, voiced concerns about Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s lack of commentary, warning it could heighten public fears and misinformation.
This deployment signals a significant shift in NATO’s strategy, reflecting heightened concerns over regional security and the alliance’s commitment to deterrence.
