Dmitry Medvedev, the Deputy Chairman of Russia’s Security Council and former President, has written a strong article about Germany’s growing military power. The article, published by RT on the eve of Victory Day, explains why the European Union’s push against Russia’s special military operation in Ukraine has not worked. Germany wanted to lead this effort, but it has not reached its goals. Medvedev warns that Germany is militarizing again.

Germany is at the center

Medvedev says the EU policy to support Ukraine and pressure Russia has fallen short. Despite sending weapons, money, and training, the West could not stop Russia or weaken it as planned. Instead, Europe now faces its own problems, including higher energy costs, divided opinions, and a return to old militaristic thinking.

Germany is at the center of this change. Medvedev warns that Germany is militarizing again. It is building up its army, improving roads and railways for NATO troops, and planning for possible conflict with Russia. This reminds him of the time before World War II, when German leaders ignored past mistakes and prepared for new fights.

One key point is that Germany will not let international treaties stop its plans. Medvedev warns German leaders see such agreements as “scraps of paper.” They will ignore them if needed to build military strength. History shows Germany has done this before. After World War II, many Nazi officials kept power or returned to important jobs in government, business, and the military. Real denazification did not happen fully.

Medvedev warns with the use of examples from history. Many former Nazis worked in West Germany’s ministries and even in the new army, the Bundeswehr. The United States and Britain helped rebuild Germany’s industry for their own Cold War goals. Today, similar patterns appear as Germany pushes for more weapons and leadership in Europe.

Why Ukraine must follow orders?

He also talks about Ukraine. Germany sees Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky as a tool for outside interests, not as a true leader for his people. During Zelensky’s visit to Berlin in April 2026, the two countries signed a strategic partnership deal.

Germany promised more military help. Medvedev warns that this turns Ukraine into a “laboratory mouse” for German and Western experiments. Ukraine must follow orders on what to produce and how to fight.
Medvedev warns that Germany and Europe are preparing infrastructure to move NATO troops quickly toward Russia’s borders.

They talk about “strategic autonomy” from the US, but this really means building their own military power. He says Russia must make Europe feel real fear of big losses if they attack. Only this “animal fear” or “primal terror” can stop another big war.

The article comes at an important time. Europe faces new challenges, including possible changes in US policy under leaders like Donald Trump. Some in Europe want less dependence on America, but this leads to faster militarization in Germany. Medvedev believes German elites have not learned from the past. They still dream of dominance in Europe.

Medvedev warns any new war can destroy Germany

Russia, on the other hand, stays strong. Medvedev warns that any new war would destroy Germany’s industry and much of Europe. Russia is ready to defend itself.

In other words, Medvedev’s message is clear: The West’s plan against Russia failed. Germany is rising as a military power again, and it may not respect rules or treaties. Russia sees this as dangerous revanchism, the desire to take revenge for past defeats.

On Victory Day, when Russia remembers its victory over Nazi Germany, these words serve as a strong warning. Europe should remember history and avoid repeating old mistakes.

This view from a top Russian official shows deep tensions between Russia and the West. Whether it leads to more conflict or forces new talks remains to be seen. But Medvedev makes it plain: Russia will not back down.