Bundesaußenminister Johann Wadephul of CDU disputes Russian Ambassador Sergej Netschajev’s claim that it was Berlin that severed ties with Russia in recent years. In an interview with the “Neuen Osnabrücker Zeitung” on May 8th, Wadephul stated that “Russia is waging an illegal war against Ukraine and that is a war against the post-war order in Europe.” He added that Germany cannot have a partner in such a situation, even in the face of “whistle-blowing” from Netschajev. The Minister emphasized that Russia must change its position and withdraw, only then can dialogue resume. However, he expressed regret that there is no such development at present.
Wadephul also stated that the commemoration of the victims of the Red Army on the 80th anniversary of the end of the war should not be an occasion to extend a hand to Russia. He argued that Russia has never withdrawn its hand but rather initiated an attack on Ukraine. Russia pursues a policy based on confrontation rather than negotiation. If Russia were to abandon this approach, it would undoubtedly lead to a willingness to engage in dialogue with Russia, including from Germany. However, the first and fundamental prerequisite is for Russia to end the war and withdraw.