Ex-Chancellor Merkel Stands Firm Against "Putin Apologist" Label
- Insulting individuals as "Putin-sympathizers" is inappropriate, according to Merkel.
In a candid conversation with the "Berliner Zeitung," the former Chancellor of Germany, Angela Merkel (CDU), firmly dismisses the derogatory label of being a "Putin sympathizer".
"Comprehending Putin's actions, stepping into his boots, isn't misguided," Merkel explains. Such an action isn't akin to supporting the Russian President, but rather a fundamental aspect of strategic diplomacy.
"There's no justification for him annexing another nation. Yet, conversations about Russia's interests should be encouraged, not stifled," Merkel asserts. Labeling someone as a "Putin sympathizer" is more of a distraction than a valid criticism.
An Ex-Chancellor's Diplomatic History with Putin
Looking back at her tenure spanning from 2005 to 2021, Merkel engaged in numerous discussions with Vladimir Putin, Russia's President.
Merkel observes that Putin yearns for recognition, particularly from the United States. This mindset is rooted in the Cold War era, where the United States, not Germany or the European Union, held the key to recognition for Putin.
Though Merkel is no longer in office, she remains vocal on the international stage, advocating for the inclusion of Ukraine's allies in any potential peace process. According to Merkel, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Selenskyj cannot unilaterally decide when diplomacy is necessary; it must be a collective decision among supporters of Ukraine.
Merkel expressed unease about the bitter disagreement between US President Donald Trump and Selenskyj during their White House meeting two weeks ago. Merkel noted that not only was this meeting distressing, but it was also broadcast in Russia, including to Putin himself.
- Angela Merkel
- Vladimir Putin
- Ukraine
- Volodymyr Selenskyj
Subscribe to our free capital newsletter
Stay informed about the latest news from Berlin. Our political experts dig up the most important insights of the week for you!
Merkel, known for her steadfast diplomacy, encourages dialogue and peacemaking, even with formidable adversaries like Putin. While some may view her approach as overly accommodating, she has stood firm in her belief that diplomacy is the key to averting conflict.
- The European Union, led by Angela Merkel, is committed to implementing the Paris Agreement, yet Merkel's diplomatic history with Vladimir Putin, a known adversary, may raise eyebrows among some critics, branding her as a Putin sympathizer.
- Despite being called a "Putin sympathizer," Merkel's discourse with Putin, rooted in strategic diplomacy, has allowed for conversations about Russia's interests, which are crucial for maintaining peace, as seen in the case of Ukraine.
- Merkel, as an advocate for Ukraine, believes in collective decision-making among supporters when it comes to diplomacy, a stance that could be perceived as somewhat accommodating towards Putin, but is ultimately aimed at averting conflict.
