US urges Germany to 'deter Russia'
Germany should increase defense spending, because NATO is an important tool to 'deter Russia,' US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in an interview with BILD.
"The most difficult decision is in the hands of the German people. The German government has promised to guarantee 2% (of GDP for defense spending), and people should demand that the government keep its promise. NATO is an extremely important tool in deterring Russia. With its capacity and strength, Germany should understand that it needs to deliver something, at least what it has promised," said Pompeo, who visited Berlin to meet with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Foreign Minister Heiko Maas.
Earlier, after meeting with Mr. Pompeo, Mr. Maas stated that Germany and the United States are interested in good relations with Russia and are working in dialogue to resolve international conflicts.
"We hope that Germany will do more. The German government understands the threat of missile programs and regional aggression (from Iran). These risks are real," Mr. Pompeo said, adding that "liberal democracies must protect this world from these threats, and I have confidence in Germany, which will engage as a partner."
