Military missions are not democratic development aid.

As foreign minister I cannot allow myself to be guided by emotions.

I'm completely opposed to the idea of becoming accustomed to foreign military campaigns.

I was never a member of the peace movement or a pacifist, nor was I ever carried away from a demonstration outside a military barracks. Perhaps that's why I don't feel the need to compensate for anything.

The fact that someone didn't experience the war itself doesn't mean that he doesn't perceive its consequences.

Military missions cannot be a normal tool of politics, but instead must remain the great exception.

As a minister, I would rather be criticized for thoroughly weighing the options, and sometimes even voicing my doubts, than to be reproached for recklessly sending German soldiers into combat.