Strained ties: Germany's energy dilemma in Ukraine peace talks
In light of the peace negotiations concerning Ukraine, Green Party Chairman Felix Banaszak warned the Christian Democratic Union/Christian Social Union (CDU/CSU) and the Social Democratic Party (SPD) against a renewed rapproachment with Russia. In an interview with the RND portal on Friday, he criticised the idea of resuming purchases of Russian gas after peace is established in Ukraine.
- We must never again make the mistake of putting ourselves in the hands of authoritarian states - said Banaszak in an interview with the editorial network RedaktionsNetzwerk Deutschland (RND).
That’s why I watch with great concern how the first voices are now speculating on an imposed peace between Russia and Ukraine and wanting to turn the gas taps back on - he added.
Banaszak particularly mentioned CDU deputy Thomas Bareiss, who showed openness regarding new gas supplies from Russia, but the Green leader added that "this reveals a widespread mindset. Many in the CDU/CSU and SPD are speculating about normalising relations with Russia".
Do they want a return to Russian gas? "Such people need to be removed swiftly"
Bareiss recently stated on LinkedIn that in the event of peace, gas "could obviously flow again through Nord Stream." CDU politician from North Rhine-Westphalia Jan Heinisch told the Politico portal that in the case of peace, "we should also be able to discuss purchasing Russian gas again."
Banaszak addressed Friedrich Merz, stating that if the CDU leader and chancellor candidate wants to maintain the rest of his credibility in foreign policy, "he must very quickly remove people like Thomas Bareiss from the negotiating team in coalition talks".
- If I were Lars Klingbeil (SPD leader), I would demand this from Mr Merz - he added.
Moscow connections
The Green leader also said: "I see Moscow connections (orig. Moskau-Connection) in both the CDU/CSU and SPD". According to Banaszak, there is a fear that "these forces will strengthen again" after the government coalition of CDU/CSU and SPD is formed.
Christian Democrats and Social Democrats are currently conducting coalition negotiations. The CDU/CSU and SPD government, headed by Friedrich Merz, is expected to form in April.
