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Germany is bolstering its defence measures for the first time since World War II, in response to the threat from Russia. The country is implementing various strategies such as making bunkers out of subway stations, issuing one-time meals a day and coupons. These initiatives were outlined in a 67-page Framework Directive for Overall Defence, aimed at gearing up Germany’s defence capacity in preparation for a war, reports CNN.

This is in contrast to Germany’s anti-war stance since World War II as it has to prepare for a war now in the wake of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and a threat to Europe. Germany believes it might earn the wrath of Vladimir Putin’s Russia as it has supplied war machinery to Ukraine.

During the war, Germany would reintroduce mandatory conscription, requiring German citizens to join the army. People who are skilled and over the age of 18 will have to work in bakeries and post offices and will not have the choice to quit. Healthcare professionals such as doctors, psychologists, nurses, and veterinarians will have to take up important military and civil service ranks, according to CNN.

This, Germany believes, will keep the morale of the nation high.

Germany prepares for a war led by Russian aggression:

Rationing will also be seen during the war. As the food supply diminishes, the government will ensure that the citizens are provided with “one hot meal a day” for a period of time, in the document. Federal reserves will comprise foods such as rice, pulses and milk.

Coupons will be given for vital resources such as oil and petrol if there is a shortage.

It is an all-out preparation as civil measures are also being taken. Underground stations are being converted into bunkers, reports CNN.

German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser discussed the importance of being ready for a war in case of Russian aggression.

“The Russian aggression has completely changed the security situation in Europe – first and foremost among our eastern EU and NATO partners such as in the Baltic States, but also due to hybrid threats such as cyberattacks, espionage and disinformation here,” she said.

“In addition to all the protective measures of our security authorities and military deterrence and defence, we must therefore also further strengthen civil protection.”

Changes to expect during the war on Europe

Hospitals are also being prepared to treat many patients. The document further adds if a war breaks out, Germans cannot rely on “government-organized help” instantly as there are chances of “simultaneously at a large number of locations”.

For this reason, the document asks civilians to be self-sufficient and to even help their neighbours. Basements, underground parking and subway stations should be used as bunkers as an attack could occur within “extremely short warning times”.

The document also gives instructions to Germany’s broadcast and digital media, that they will be required by law to share relevant government information immediately. Germany’s state broadcaster, Deutsche Welle, would have to legally provide the government with broadcasting time details for announcing new regulations and laws.

Authorities can ask people to evacuate any area at any point of time. However, they will ensure that families do not get separated from each other.

German weather services will work during an emergency as well, but they might be asked not to give away all the forecasts.

Russia has warned the West about a war

This document and preparation for war comes amid the Russia-Ukraine war, as Germany fears that the war will spread over to other Nato countries.

German Defensive Minister Pistorius said, according to newspaper Der Spiegel: “We must be ready for war by 2029.”

Pistorius further said, “We must not believe that Putin will stop at Ukraine’s borders when he gets that far.”

Germany is not the only country to be preparing for a war.

People from the British government have voiced concerns about a war and the need to be prepared. Former UK Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said “war is coming” to Britain by the end of this decade, and he asked for a higher investment in defence.

In the past few days, Russia has warned the West that some of Ukraine’s allies have allowed Kyiv to attack Russian territory with the help of their weapons. Putin called this a “very serious and dangerous step,” and he would also not hesitate to arm his enemies if the West did not stop.

Putin said that Russia’s relations with Germany will deteriorate as German tanks are being used by Ukraine and this was a “moral, ethical shock,” as “the attitude towards [Germany] in Russian society has always been very good, very good.”

“Now, when they say that some more missiles will appear that will strike targets on Russian territory, this, of course, is ultimately destroying Russo-German relations,” he added.