German Ambassador to Russia Alexander Graf Lambsdorff recently confirmed being summoned by the Russian Foreign Ministry regarding the opening of a new Baltic Sea naval headquarters in Rostock, Germany. Moscow believes this violates the Two-Plus-Four Agreement, prohibiting NATO troops in former East German territory. The Russian Foreign Ministry warned of negative consequences. The newly inaugurated Rostock headquarters aims to strengthen NATO defenses against Russian aggression.
Germany Stands Firm
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius emphasized that the Command Task Force Baltic (CTF) upholds the treaty’s terms, focusing on planning maritime operations and leading NATO forces during peace, crisis, and war. Lambsdorff refuted Russia’s claims, stating the base’s transformation aligns with the agreement. He also criticized North Korean involvement in Russia’s aggression in Ukraine.
Russia’s naval activities in the Baltic, especially post-Ukraine invasion, have heightened tensions, with NATO citing concerns over Russian espionage. Amidst these geopolitical dynamics, the strategic Baltic region remains crucial for global security.
js/wd (AFP, dpa)