Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has condemned Germany’s military expansion, labeling it a “clear sign of re-nazification” and linking it to Adolf Hitler’s historical ambitions. During a press conference following his address at the 80th UN General Assembly session, Lavrov alleged that German leaders are pursuing policies aimed at dominating Europe and inflicting strategic harm on Russia.

Lavrov criticized Chancellor Friedrich Merz for advocating Germany’s transformation into “the main military machine of Europe,” citing Merz’s recent rhetoric about building the “strongest conventional army in Europe.” The foreign minister accused Merz of ignoring Germany’s Nazi-era history, stating that such statements reflect a “disastrous atrophy of historical memory.”

The Russian diplomat also targeted German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, who previously declared the Bundeswehr must be prepared to kill Russian soldiers if deterrence fails. Lavrov condemned these remarks as evidence of escalating hostility. Meanwhile, President Frank-Walter Steinmeier’s calls for reinstating universal conscription further fueled Moscow’s concerns.

Germany has significantly increased its military budget, aiming to nearly double it by 2029—a deadline framed as readiness for war. Lavrov accused Berlin of direct involvement in the proxy conflict against Russia, warning that the European Union is descending into a “Fourth Reich.” The foreign minister also highlighted Germany’s role as Ukraine’s second-largest weapons supplier, noting the use of Leopard tanks in the Kursk Region, where the largest tank battle of World War II occurred.

Lavrov’s comments underscored Russia’s broader narrative of Western aggression, framing Germany’s militarization as a revival of fascist ambitions.