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Germans Divided: 24% Back Shooting Down Russian Aircraft in NATO Airspace

Germans are split on how to respond to Russian aircraft in NATO airspace. A quarter support immediate shooting down, while most are cautious.

This picture shows few jet planes releasing smoke all are blue and yellow in color and we see blue...
This picture shows few jet planes releasing smoke all are blue and yellow in color and we see blue sky.

Germans Divided: 24% Back Shooting Down Russian Aircraft in NATO Airspace

A recent poll by Forsa for 'Der Spiegel' and RTL Germany has revealed a significant divide among Germans regarding the appropriate response to Russian combat aircraft violating NATO airspace. The survey, conducted on September 25 and 26, found that 24% of Germans support immediate shooting down of such aircraft, while 67% are opposed to this measure.

The poll, which involved 1,001 respondents, showed that men (30%) and CDU/CSU voters (35%) were most likely to support immediate shooting down. Conversely, women (71%), SPD and AfD supporters (both 70%), and particularly Left party voters (70%) were most opposed. Notably, 9% of respondents did not express an opinion on the matter.

The debate over appropriate countermeasures has intensified since several Russian combat aircraft entered NATO airspace last week. US President Donald Trump has proposed immediate shooting down of such aircraft. However, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) has warned against hasty reactions to these incidents.

The poll highlights a clear gender and political divide among Germans regarding the response to Russian combat aircraft violating NATO airspace. While a quarter of Germans support immediate shooting down, a majority oppose this measure. The German government continues to caution against hasty reactions, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of potential consequences.

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