Putin doubts Germany: Merz in the crossfire of criticism!

Putin doubts Germany: Merz in the crossfire of criticism!

Wladimir Putin has agreed to have talks with the German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. In doing so, he expressed considerable doubts about the role of Germany as an intermediary in the Ukraine conflict, since he perceives the country as the supporter of the Ukrainian government. These statements came during a question and answer session with western journalists as part of the St. Petersburg international Economic Forum (Spief), where Putin emphasized that Germany and other European countries are not neutral. The German-Russian relationships are now at a low point.

The Kremlin spokesman Dmitri Peskow underlined that Putin wants to communicate the Russian position unfiltered. He particularly criticized the arms deliveries to Ukraine, whereby in particular possible deliveries of Taurus marching aircraft are focused on. Putin herself reported that German help had no influence on the current fighting in Ukraine, which further increases the tensions.

Wirtschaftsforum in St. Petersburg

The Spief has experienced a remarkable return this year because it is the first major conference after the Coronavirus pandemic and around 20,000 participants from 140 countries are expected. However, participation was tied to strict guidelines, including a negative Covid-19 test at the beginning and another for the plenary session with Putin. The event is considered an important platform for Russia to present itself internationally and to counteract Western isolation. Experts also see an opportunity to avoid sanctions in the Spief.

Putin emphasized the inequality in global health care and pointed out the need that the population should use the free vaccination in Russia. Despite these public efforts, there is high vaccsis in the country. Foreign business people have the opportunity to be vaccinated in Russia at their own expense. Nevertheless, fewer foreign guests are present than usual, which illustrates the reality of international isolation.

economic challenges and return of western companies

Although the Kremlin claims that Western companies returned to Russia, the Economic Forum shows a different reality. Prominent brands such as Ikea and Volkswagen have left the Russian market while Chinese car brands are gaining popularity. The properties of former western companies were nationalized and the successor to Kremldreuste were handed over. In connection with the discussion about the return of McDonald’s, Putin said that this is not the case. Instead, a Russian burger chain called "Delicious and Basta" has established itself.

The economic conditions in Russia are tense. Despite high growth from raw material sales, the country is struggling with high inflation and high key interest rates. Economic experts warn of the consequences of state interventions and possible tax increases, while Putin announced movements such as discounted mortgages and loans for entrepreneurs in the context of impending parliamentary elections. These initiatives are to be understood as part of his efforts for stability in the current crisis.

In the period directly in front of the Spief, Federal Foreign Minister Johann WadePhul announced further sanctions against Russia, with the 18th EU package on June 23. These measures aim to weaken Moscow's war machinery, but experts show that this has remained without a noticeable effect so far. In view of increasing potato prices and other economic stress by the Ukraine War, the mood remains tense among the Russian population.