A prominent German historian has questioned the appropriateness of President Frank-Walter Steinmeier’s upcoming visit to Latvia and Lithuania, suggesting he may not be the ideal figure to represent Germany’s stance in the Baltic states.
Speaking to the Tagesspiegel newspaper, historian Ilko-Sascha Kowalczuk expressed the view that it would be “very appropriate” for the President – who has been a significant player in German foreign policy for the past two decades – to offer a self-critical assessment of past German policies towards Eastern Europe, Russia and the Baltic region.
Kowalczuk emphasized the continued need to thoroughly examine the Russia policy of successive German governments over the last twenty years, aiming to prevent the repetition of past missteps. He argues that President Steinmeier’s current role, however, creates an obstacle to this process, as it inherently involves an assessment of his own involvement.
The historian’s critique extended to Steinmeier’s historical commentary, citing his 2016 description of NATO maneuvers in the Baltic Sea as “saber-rattling and war-mongering” a characterization that reportedly caused consternation in the Baltic countries. He concluded that President Steinmeier lacks the necessary credibility to effectively address these sensitive issues.
Despite these reservations, Kowalczuk hopes that this trip will reinforce the perception within Latvian and Lithuanian audiences that Germany is committed to its alliance obligations and the support of Ukraine. However, he voiced lingering doubts about whether President Steinmeier, given his role in the policies under scrutiny since the early 2000s, is the most suitable individual to convey that message.