Germany metro stations will soon become bomb shelters, while people's basements will become fortified shelters. For the first time since the Cold War, Germany has upgraded its posture for conflict in Europe.

A crisis is brewing on the continent — an alarm has gone off throughout the land. War could be coming. In quick succession, military chiefs from across Europe are urging their populace to get ready. Political leaders, from Britain to the Nordic countries and the Baltic States, increasingly emphasize that Europeans must prepare for war with Russia.

The 67-page document, known as the Framework Directive for Overall Defense, envisions the complete transformation of daily life for German citizens in the event of war. It is a further sign of how Germany, which has been staunchly anti-militaristic since World War II, has decided to revamp its security policy in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Under wartime conditions, mandatory conscription would be reinstated. Skilled laborers could be made to work critical jobs such as bakeries and post offices. Professionals would be repurposed in various civil service roles.

Unveiling the plans, German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said in a press conference that it was necessary for the country to better secure itself, given Russian aggression in Ukraine.

“The Russian aggression has completely changed the security situation in Europe … foremost among our eastern EU and NATO partners, but also due to hybrid threats … cyberattacks, espionage and disinformation here.”

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

The German........

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