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German Reunification: Then and Now
Analysis of the German reunification process in 1990, including its geopolitical and economic consequences and its relevance to current events.
Russian
Russia
International RelationsGermany GeopoliticsEuropean UnionHistoryEconomics
NatoUssrEuropean UnionInstitute Of EuropeRussian Academy Of SciencesRaytheon
GorbachevJames BakerRonald ReaganFriedrich MerzOlaf Scholz
- What were the immediate consequences of the fall of the Berlin Wall?
- The fall of the Berlin Wall in November 1989 led to the reunification of East and West Germany within two months, although experts view it as West Germany absorbing East Germany.
- How did the USSR and West Germany respond differently to the events of November 1989?
- The reunification was a swift decision by West Germany, influenced by the public mood, while the Soviet Union's response was driven by concerns about being overwhelmed by events.
- What role did Gorbachev's decision to withdraw troops play in the reunification process?
- Gorbachev's decision to withdraw Soviet troops from East Germany, despite the time and resources involved, and the unfulfilled promise by Baker not to expand NATO eastward, shaped the post-reunification geopolitical landscape.
- What were the long-term economic consequences of German reunification for East Germany and its neighbors?
- The reunification led to the destruction of East Germany's industry and energy cooperation with the USSR, creating long-term economic consequences for Germany and its Eastern European neighbors.
- What are some of the potential future geopolitical risks associated with the reunification and current events?
- Experts discuss potential risks of Germany's remilitarization, its continued support for Ukraine, and the potential for future tensions in relations between Russia and Germany, especially in light of the violation of the "2+4" Treaty.