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According to the CEO of Rheinmetall, Germany's largest defense company, it will take Europe 10 years to become fully prepared to defend itself. During a visit by Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Armin Papperger stated that ammunition stocks are currently depleted. The CEO made these comments at the foundation-laying ceremony for a new arms manufacturing plant in Lower Saxony, which was attended by Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. These remarks follow recent statements made by US presidential candidate Donald Trump, causing concern in Europe. Trump had mentioned that he wouldn't protect NATO members who failed to pay their dues and even suggested supporting aggressors. Rheinmetall plans to invest over $300 million in the new facility, which is expected to produce 200,000 rounds of artillery shells per year. Papperger emphasized the need for preparation against potential NATO adversaries, stating that it would take 10 years to be fully ready. He also mentioned that a significant amount of Europe's ammunition had been sent to Ukraine, leaving the region with limited reserves. Chancellor Scholz refused to comment on Trump's statements but affirmed the importance of NATO for the US and European countries. He also highlighted Russian President Vladimir Putin's "imperial ambitions" and stressed the need to deter potential aggressors for peace. When asked if Europe should be prepared to defend itself without US support, Prime Minister Frederiksen asserted the necessity to be ready "no matter what" due to Russia's increasing aggression. Since Germany's declaration of Zeitenwende (a turning point in foreign and defense policy) following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, there has been recognition that relying solely on trade with Russia is inadequate. However, Germany is among the majority of NATO members projected to miss the 2% spending target by 2023. Berlin is expected to reach that goal in 2024 with a one-time fund. Since the invasion of Ukraine, Europe has been investing more in defense, but according to Dr. Claudia Major from the German Institute for International and Security Affairs, Europeans are still reliant on US support in conventional conflicts. Papperger acknowledged the progress made since Zeitenwende and emphasized the improved trust between the government and defense contractors. Rheinmetall's share price has risen steadily since the invasion of Ukraine. Given Germany's history of rearmament leading to military and morale catastrophes in the 20th century, the issue of defense preparation carries significant weight. While the outcome of the US election remains uncertain, Trump's recent comments are seen as a wake-up call for Europe, though not the first of its kind.