German officials have accused the United States of seizing a shipment of 200,000 protective face masks intended for Berlin’s police force, calling the action an ‘act of modern piracy.’ The masks, identified as FFP2 respirators—equivalent to N95 masks—were reportedly made in China and diverted at Bangkok airport while en route to Germany.
The demand for personal protective equipment has intensified globally as countries grapple with the spread of COVID-19. Berlin’s state interior minister, Andreas Geisel, expressed outrage over the incident, stating that such actions are ‘inhumane and unacceptable.’ Berlin Mayor Michael Müller echoed these sentiments, criticizing the United States for employing what he described as ‘Wild West methods.’
The masks were reportedly ordered from the American company 3M. German officials believe the interception is linked to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent invocation of the Defense Production Act, which compels U.S. companies like 3M to prioritize domestic orders for critical medical supplies. However, 3M has stated it has no record of an order from Berlin, and a U.S. official, who remained anonymous, dismissed the allegations as false.
As the United States faces a mounting crisis—with COVID-19 cases surpassing those in any other country—reports have emerged of aggressive tactics to secure medical supplies, sometimes outbidding or redirecting shipments intended for other nations. Similar concerns have been raised by officials in France and Canada.
3M finds itself at the center of this global struggle. The company, which manufactures N95 masks both in the United States and abroad, has been urged by the U.S. government to halt exports to Canada and Latin America. 3M cautioned that ceasing exports could lead to a humanitarian crisis in affected regions.
Germany, now with one of the highest numbers of confirmed COVID-19 cases worldwide, has also faced criticism for restricting exports of medical protective equipment, a move mirrored by other European nations such as France. These measures have sparked debate over national interests versus global cooperation during the pandemic.
The incident highlights the escalating tensions and competition among nations to secure vital medical supplies amid the global health crisis. As countries navigate these challenges, the balance between safeguarding national interests and fostering international solidarity remains a critical concern.
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German authorities accuse U.S. of 'piracy' by seizing face masks
cgtn.com
