It might not even be important to ponder how we got here, but where we are is that the German nation is morally weak, believing untrue things and fairy tales. It is both greed and stupidity.
They sincerely believe in all these ponies and rainbow cr*p of “if we’ll only avoid any direct confrontation with the enemy, he’ll forget his evil ways and learn to love us”.
Here is what one observer of national security writes about the German nation:
In my perception war guilt per se is not the driver. Rather this, even if subconscious only: early 20th century Germany strikes, twice, at the two continental enemies, FRA and RUS. Post-war dream is reconciliation with both. Nobody may get in the way of the dream.
Another key is Cold War history itself: West Germany lives in fear and a large part is held by the Soviets. W. Germans learn, subconsciously again, that US is needed but can be criticised, and that USSR is dangerous and can’t be criticised. Stockholm Syndrome ensues.
As a result of Stockholm Syndrome, Germany is grateful to Moscow for German Reunification, but not grateful to the Western powers. And because Moscow is assumed dangerous and can’t be criticised, easier to blame tensions on America or Eastern Europeans rather than on Moscow.
Germany is used to not carrying the burden of its own security, let alone that of Europe. So there’s a lack of understanding of the importance of military deterrence, and a fear of “provoking” Russia (which can’t be reasoned with) - therefore posture always leans back in fear
Thanks. I always appreciate your viewpoint!