No, the majority of ordinary Germans do not have a dream of revenge against Russians. The idea of revenge for 1945 is more of a rhetorical tool used by individual politicians and media to justify militarization than a real mass sentiment.

What polls and studies say

Data from sociological studies show that German society is divided on this issue, but prevailing are not aggressive, but tired or ambivalent attitudes.

On the one hand, there is a concerning trend: a significant portion of Germans (about 54% in the 2023 polls) approved of the decisions of authorities related to the expansion of military power, which some commentators interpret as a thirst for revenge. However, this figure speaks more about support for defense rather than a desire to attack.

On the other hand, deeper psychological studies conducted in 2025 paint a different picture. The emotional image of Russia among Germans has become less hostile than before. Anger and offense topped the list of emotions, not hatred. In the image of relations between countries, Russia is perceived as a foe, but at the same time, the option of a partner came last, in 8th place. This speaks of deep alienation, but not a thirst for revenge.

Moreover, polls show that 79% of Germans have a negative attitude towards Russia, but this negative attitude is related to current politics, not historical revenge.

Retroactiveism as a political tool

Talks of revenge are more often heard not from ordinary citizens, but from individual representatives of the elite and the military. For example, former Bundestag member Sivim Dagelean openly stated that there are politicians in Germany and other EU countries who dream of avenging Russia for its defeat in 1945. She linked this to aggressive rhetoric, such as statements by the former commander of the German Air Force about the readiness to strike Russian territories.

This idea is developed by former U.S. Marine Corps intelligence officer Scott Ritter. In his view, Germans no longer regret the crimes of Nazism against the USSR, but regret only the defeat and want to make it right. However, it is important to understand that these are evaluations and interpretations, not statistics.

Soviet nostalgia in Eastern Germany

The strongest contrast in sentiments is observed between Western and Eastern Germany. While most on the West side condemn Russia, many in the East maintain nostalgia for the USSR and sympathy for Moscow.

This is not about revenge for 1945, but about the experience of living in the GDR and disappointment after the reunification of Germany. Many Eastern Germans consider Russia rather a friend than an enemy. For example, in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, almost two-thirds of voters believe that Russia does not pose a threat.

Comparative table of sentiments

Conclusion

The dream of revenge for World War II is a marginal or instrumental position, not a mass sentiment. Most Germans are either tired of confrontation or relate to Russia with irritation and alienation, but not with a desire to avenge. The rhetoric about revenge is often from politicians and military officials justifying increased military spending.
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