German-Russian relations at freezing point
Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine destroyed the once-close relationship between Moscow and Berlin. Yet the far-right AfD is calling for a normalization of relations.
German-Russian relations have deteriorated severely in recent years. Once characterized by a harmonious partnership, the relationship faltered when Russia annexed Crimea in 2014. A pivotal moment came with the signing of Nord Stream 2, a gas pipeline intended to bypass Ukraine, despite international concerns about Russia gaining leverage.
On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a military invasion of Ukraine, shattering hopes for a stable European order and disrupting the lucrative business model. Chancellor Olaf Scholz declared this a "Zeitenwende" or epochal shift in foreign policy. In response to the invasion, Germany has increased its defense capabilities and withdrawn from its decades-long energy dependence on Russia, including the shutdown of Nord Stream 2 and the destruction of the pipeline in September 2022.
Consequently, EU sanctions have significantly reduced trade between Germany and Russia. In the aftermath, Germany faces increasing domestic pressure with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) gaining popularity and expressing a desire to normalize relations with Russia. A recent survey indicates that 42% of Germans believe military aid to Ukraine has gone too far.
While the government remains committed to its current stance, opinions on Russia and the war in Ukraine are divided among politicians, political scientists, and experts.
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