No more excuses on Ukraine
Re “In Germany, a reluctance to arm Ukraine,” Jan. 27
You cited old polling on providing Ukraine with German-made Leopard tanks. More recent polling shows the German public supports tank deliveries to Ukraine, with 54% in favor and 38% against, according to a survey by public broadcaster ZDF.
While pacifism is indeed part of the Germany’s national consciousness, it does not reflect the feelings of the larger populace and is especially tenuous among young Germans. I was disappointed that your article did not quote anyone under 53 years old.
As Europe’s largest economy, Germany has concluded it must take a more active role in defense issues, as confirmed by its recent acquiescence on Leopard tank exports to Ukraine. If we look at polling from last year, when 73% of Germans opposed sending any weapons to Ukraine, we can see just how much war has changed the German populace.
The unspeakable horror Germany wrought in the 20th century does not excuse an abdication of leadership during this war of aggression in Europe in the 21st century.
Caleb Larson Berlin