The German government’s plan to station US cruise missiles in Germany has sparked criticism and unease, particularly within the SPD. However, the party leadership has now firmly supported the initiative.
In a resolution from the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD) presidium reported by the news agency dpa and Spiegel, the SPD stated: “As SPD, we take responsibility to ensure that no child born in Germany today will experience war again.” The agreement between the SPD-led government and the US administration to station American missiles with greater range in Germany is seen as a crucial element in this commitment.
US missile deployment starting in 2026
At the NATO summit in July, the White House and the German government announced that the US plans to station weapon systems in Germany starting in 2026, capable of reaching deep into Russia. The weapons include Tomahawk cruise missiles, SM-6 missiles, and new hypersonic weapons still in development.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) argued that these weapons are intended for deterrence and to prevent war. However, some within the SPD have expressed concerns. Rolf Mützenich, the SPD faction leader in the Bundestag, warned of the risks of military escalation. SPD Bundestag member Ralf Stegner opposed further armament.
No nuclear weapons planned
The SPD presidium’s resolution clarifies that the deployment is not intended as a confrontational escalation but as a reinforcement of Germany’s defense and NATO and EU alliance capabilities with weapon systems already possessed by Russia. “The planned weapons will be equipped with conventional warheads and stationed in existing US military facilities in western Germany. No nuclear armament of these systems is planned.”
SPD leader Lars Klingbeil had previously defended the plans for the deployment of long-range US weapons in Germany, while also calling for the government to provide a clearer explanation of the initiative. The presidium resolution states that the SPD will create space for dialogue with members and citizens in the coming weeks and months. Additionally, the Bundestag will thoroughly examine the issue after the parliamentary summer break.
