Yes which is the most fundamental sticking point of them all. I think, in fact I am pretty sure at least one German writer had recommended Germany explore preparations for such a conflict early in the 1900s but I would need to read back to check.
He certainly found himself in a minuscule minority though so essentially you are correct.
The funny thing is everyone felt it in their bones that it will be long war and will shake the foundations of civilization. Yet no one was able to vocalize this or so much admit this, even to oneself.