Bundeswehr warns Germany isn’t prepared for war, medical shortages among issues
The Bundeswehr acknowledges the need for more military exercises (Photo: Getty Images)
The Bundeswehr has released a grim report revealing that Germany is currently not prepared for a potential war, citing issues with the country’s medical system and more, Bild reports.
Bundeswehr points out 'weak spots'
A special report by the Bundeswehr, prepared by 200 experts including military personnel and medical professionals, offers the first stark assessment of Germany’s readiness for emergencies and outlines urgent steps that need to be taken.
In the worst-case scenario, around 1,000 wounded soldiers could arrive in Germany daily, along with civilian casualties. Experts predict serious physical and psychosocial strain on medical personnel and other patients.
An increase in infectious diseases is also expected in the event of a potential invasion, along with shortages of medicine, blood, and bandaging materials. Preparations must also account for possible targeted attacks by the enemy on hospitals and medical personnel.
Currently, experts assess Germany’s medical system as moderately prepared: unclear responsibilities, vulnerable supply chains, and uncoordinated communication channels; pharmacies are insufficiently stocked with medicine, and there is no clear knowledge of which doctors are available or assigned to reserve duties.
Expert recommendations
- Protect hospitals, pharmacies, and drug manufacturers from looting and destruction; move medical facilities underground.
- Use schools and sports halls as collection points for the wounded.
- Train medical students in treating battlefield injuries and triage.
- Reduce hospital bureaucracy to treat 20–25% more patients.
- Restore production of critical medicines within the EU.
- Stockpile essential medications and medical supplies.
- Use blood reserves from other regions to prevent shortages.
- Simplify packaging and instruction requirements for medicines.
- Conduct more joint exercises between military and civilian personnel.
- Establish an operational healthcare system for emergencies.
Germany prepares for a potential war
Recently, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius called for the country to be ready for war amid growing threats from Russia.
The minister stressed that Germany must strengthen its defense, as Russia’s aggressive policies and the US calls for greater European security autonomy require concrete action.
RBC-Ukraine also reported that Germany is studying Russia’s invasion of Ukraine to prevent the Kremlin from expecting a quick victory in future conflicts.
