German healthcare system should prepare for war – minister

German Health Minister Karl Lauterbach has emphasized the need for the nation's healthcare system to be equipped for potential crises, including pandemics or military conflicts.

In an interview with "Neue Osnabrücker Zeitung," he stated that upcoming healthcare reforms could mark a significant change. Legislation for these reforms is expected in the summer.

The German government recognizes the heightened importance of preparedness, especially given the conflict in Ukraine. Lauterbach insists on clarity in responsibilities and the necessity for hospitals to run disaster response drills, countering claims of fearmongering by stressing the risks of inaction.

Echoing a sentiment on readiness, Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has urged Germany to gear up for potential conflict, and Bundeswehr General Carsten Breuer has called for a shift in mindset towards credible deterrence against possible aggression, specifically from Russia.

In response to concerns over a potential Russian attack on NATO members, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov dismissed these as unfounded, with President Vladimir Putin labeling such claims as absurd and denying any Russian interest in confronting NATO.