German Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht has resigned, following growing skepticism in the country about her suitability for the post, Reuters writes.
In an official statement, Lambrecht states that she has asked German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to relieve her of her duties as defense minister. The decision to withdraw comes at a time when Germany is under increasing international pressure to approve additional military aid to Kyiv. Germany’s own defense capabilities are also discussed, especially after several German tanks stopped working during the army’s training.
Lambrecht is blamed for not being able to get the German armed forces back in good shape quickly. Special funding of 100 billion euros was allocated for this purpose after the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Eva Hoegl, Parliamentary Commissioner of the German Armed Forces, Siemtje Moeller, State Secretary of the Ministry of Defense and others are mentioned in the German media as possible successors of the former minister, but the government has not yet made an official statement.
US Defense Minister Lloyd Austin is scheduled to arrive in Germany on the 19th of January, which further increases the tension and forces a quick evaluation of the candidates for the vacant post.
Lambrecht has faced widespread criticism, most recently after the new year when the former minister posted a video on social media thanking the soldiers, but it was difficult to hear her as rockets and firecrackers were fired in the background. He was also accused of mixing the war for Ukraine with personally pleasant meetings.
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