'We are no longer living in peacetime': Germany's race to be ready for war

But recruitment to the armed forces isn't straightforward. Many Germans are inherently anti-war.

The horrors of the Second World War, the shame of atrocities committed by the Nazis, the division of Germany and its remilitarisation during the Cold War, have all left scars.

"Some people might find it strange that Germany isn't at the forefront of the idea that Europe needs to now rearm and get ready to defend itself," says historian and author, Katja Hoyer, "but that is underestimating the long history of German aversion to anything military".

Last October, at a peace rally in Berlin, large crowds gathered to listen to anti-war speeches, many cheering in appreciation.

Among those demonstrating was 60-year-old Petra. "I stand for peace," she declared. "War is never a solution... we have to sit down and talk together."

Around her, people held banners displaying a similar message. Many were deeply worried about Germany strengthening its own military as well as supplying Ukraine with weapons.

"I think there is a real danger that everyone will be in a big war and maybe a third world war. It's very dangerous and we have to say no," said Katharina.

Germany's history loomed large for Will, another protester.

"I think Germany has a very poor history in regards to leading wars. The feeling I have is that we are drifting in this direction [towards war]," he said.

He feared more weapons for Ukraine could mean returning to a dark past.

But there were signs that some attitudes could be changing. A small counter-protest had popped up across the road.

People on megaphones shouted back replies to the anti-war speakers, showing their support for arming Ukraine.

Almost half of Germans (48%) are against further arms delivery to Ukraine, according to a survey by Ipsos at the start of January.

 In contrast 38% are still in favour.

Half of Germans back defence minister Boris Pistorius's pledge to increase defence spending to between 3% and 3.5% of GDP.

Among supporters at the Berlin counter-protest was Frederika.

She was a pacifist for years but her views changed when Russia attacked.