It is, after all, the natural urge for freedom of individuals and nations which is spontaneously coming to the fore. Our population is right if it is not afraid of war at the present time. We would be foolish if we were to forego the chance of breaking the centuries old, long-term cycle of war and peace. This, however, will be a time-consuming process. Success in the arms control negotiations, too, will depend on our cohesion and defence posture in this phase of transition.
Nobody knows what can happen and how rapidly.
Historical experience proves that times of change are always times of risk. The reform processes in the East and the relaxation of Soviet control over Eastern and Central Europe cause long-suppressed ethnic and national currents to erupt. The transatlantic connection provides the firm back-up by means of which we can derive historical advantages from the enormous restructuring process in the East. Our defence efforts do not hinder detente. It is for yet another reason that undiminished defence efforts are essential.