Germany is reportedly set to bolster its network of bomb shelters and bunkers amid concerns that Russia may launch attacks on other European nations in the next few years.
“There was a prevalent belief in Germany for a long time that preparing for war wasn’t necessary,” Ralph Thiesler, the head of the Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance Bureau, noted recently. “That outlook has changed,” he added, expressing worries about the potential for a large-scale war in Europe.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues, speculations have grown that the Kremlin could target NATO countries by 2029, prompting calls for Germany to establish a comprehensive defense system by that time, according to Thiesler.
Time is a critical factor. Since constructing new bunkers isn’t feasible quickly, plans are in motion to repurpose existing structures—like underground garages, metro stations, and public building basements—into usable shelters.
Thiesler estimates these alterations could provide shelter for up to one million people, with a plan set to be unveiled this summer.
Germany still has around 2,000 bunkers left over from the Cold War. However, less than 600 are functional, many of which need costly renovations. Currently, only about 480,000 people can be accommodated, which is less than one percent of the nation’s population.
In contrast, Finland boasts a shelter capable of hosting 50,000 people, which could actually serve around 4.8 million residents—or 85% of its population.
Leaders from the agency are urging Prime Minister Friedrich Merz to allocate funding for these plans, along with enhancements to emergency alert systems, like apps and sirens, that would guide residents during a crisis.
While Thiesler emphasized the importance of communicating the threat without inciting panic, he insisted on the necessity of acknowledging the risks posed by military aggression.
The situation in Ukraine has resonated throughout Europe, leading various countries to reassess their defense strategies. For instance, Poland—a neighbor to both Russia and Ukraine—plans to allocate nearly 5% of its GDP towards defense this year.
