Reactions in Berlin regarding recent signals from Moscow and the suggestion that former Chancellor Gerhard Schröder (SPD) take on a mediating role are highly divided. According to the “Welt” political representatives from various parties-including the CDU/CSU, SPD, Greens, The Left, BSW, and AfD-have offered a mix of outright criticism and guarded approval, while the current federal government has maintained a reserved approach.
Among the more pronounced critiques are those from the Greens, who stated that no amount of propaganda can obscure the reality. They pointed to high casualties, a lack of military successes, Ukrainian attacks, economic strains, and growing public dissatisfaction as evidence that Putin is under pressure. Speaking on behalf of the party, they stressed that “actions, not words, count” arguing that the recent announcements revealed the offer was merely a “rhetorical maneuver”.
The CDU/CSU represented a measured view, with Deputy Parliamentary Group Chairman Norbert Röttgen stating that Putin’s assertion that the war is drawing to a close suggests that Russia is facing massive pressure, both militarily and politically. While admitting that it cannot yet be determined whether Putin’s statements are a temporary public relations tactic or mark a real turning point, he conceded that the war’s costs are increasingly affecting Russia, especially because Ukraine can now launch attacks from Russian territory.
The SPD also showed internal differences regarding the proposal to include Schröder as a mediator. Adis Ahmetovic, the party’s foreign policy spokesperson, advocated that any “serious possibility” for diplomatic progress in ending the war must be carefully vetted, done in close coordination with both Ukraine and European partners.
However, The Left demanded a more proactive stance from Berlin. Party Chairman Sören Pellmann criticized the government, arguing that Chancellor Merz has failed to propose an independent peace framework since assuming office, stating that Berlin is merely reacting to events involving Trump and Putin rather than shaping the diplomatic narrative itself. His party insists on a German-led initiative within the European community for a verified ceasefire and a negotiation framework that includes non-Western actors.
The AfD adopted the opposite stance, viewing Putin’s statements as a positive signal and a source of “hope” for an early conflict end. Their foreign policy spokesperson, Markus Frohnmaier, urged the federal government to support this shift fully and exert influence on Ukrainian President Zelenskyy to initiate direct negotiations with Russia immediately.
Despite the ongoing political debates, skirmishes continue, with both Russia and Ukraine accusing each other of violating the existing ceasefire agreements.
