A simmering debate within the German government has erupted following remarks by Saxony’s Minister-President Michael Kretschmer, who recently suggested a potential future reconsideration of energy imports from Russia. The comments have drawn sharp criticism from within the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), particularly from Foreign Policy Spokesperson Roderich Kiesewetter, who branded the proposal “absurd” and “a security policy folly” in an interview with “Handelsblatt”.
Kiesewetter’s rebuke highlights a growing tension between those advocating for a pragmatic, albeit potentially precarious, engagement with Moscow and those prioritizing unwavering support for Ukraine. He argued that contemplating a return to Russian energy supplies is wholly inappropriate given Russia’s ongoing, brutal campaign targeting Ukrainian residential areas and critical energy infrastructure.
The CDU parliamentarian stressed the paramount importance of ensuring a Ukrainian victory, including the restoration of its 1991 borders and a significant curtailment of Russian influence. Kiesewetter emphasized the need to confront Russia’s imperial ambitions and dismantle its ideological framework, often manifested through the concept of “Russkiy Mir” a notion promoting the idea of a unified “Russian world”. He warned against repeating past mistakes and cautioned that such pronouncements, akin to “smokescreens” only serve to undermine Germany’s strategic clarity.
Pointing to Russia as “the greatest danger to Europe” Kiesewetter’s statements carry a stark warning. He strongly advocated for enhanced and accelerated military support for Ukraine, underlining that any delay or perceived hesitation directly compromises Germany’s own security interests. The escalating disagreement underscores the complex and politically charged landscape of German foreign policy regarding Russia and Ukraine.
