Merkel defends diplomacy with Putin amid Ukraine criticism
Angela Merkel noted that there is nothing wrong with trying to understand Vladimir Putin. In an interview with Berliner Zeitung, the former German chancellor criticized the invasion of Ukraine and added that "discussion about Russia's interests must be allowed."
- Understanding what Putin is doing and empathizing with his situation is not wrong – said the former German chancellor. Merkel emphasized that such an approach is a part of diplomacy and has nothing to do with supporting the policies of the Russian president.
The 70-year-old former politician also added that "there is no justification for his invasion of another country." Nevertheless, she highlighted the need for discussions about Russian interests. She argued against attacking those who attempt to understand Putin.
Putin seeks recognition
The former chancellor revealed that, in her opinion, the Russian leader desires recognition "especially from America." Merkel believes this mindset is rooted in the Cold War - seeing the USA as the real power and a point of reference for Putin.
In Merkel's opinion, it cannot be clearly stated whether Trump will side with Putin. - However, the fact that the USA, together with Russia, adopted a resolution against Ukraine's territorial integrity just a few days before the Oval Office meeting at the UN General Assembly is very surprising and unusual - she stressed.
She found the incident in the Oval Office depressing. - I would have preferred not to witness this meeting, especially since it was broadcast throughout Russia, including to President Putin - she explained.
Merkel disagrees with the criticism directed at her after the commencement of the war in Ukraine. She pointed out that Putin invaded Ukraine in February 2022, when the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline was not yet operational.
I recommend empathising with the situation at that time. And I also advise against immediately saying, when a different perspective emerges today, that you made the wrong decision then - she admitted.
In Merkel's view, "when the hour of diplomacy strikes, it cannot be determined by President Zelensky alone, but by Ukraine together with its supporters."
The former chancellor's remarks caught the attention of Russian media. "Berliner Zeitung" quotes Russia Today television, which assessed that "Merkel sharply criticises the witch hunt on Putin's sympathisers."
Some German analysts criticised Merkel, reminding that she focused on economic relations with Moscow, particularly in the context of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline project. Merkel "is accused of increasing Germany's dependence on Russian gas" - according to "Berliner Zeitung". The daily highlights that Merkel could have taken a more decisive stance towards Putin following the annexation of Crimea in 2014.
