In a rare public statement, Rolf Mützenich, the former SPD faction leader, has expressed his disappointment and unease at the intense criticism he faced over his comments on Russia’s role in international politics.
Mützenich, one of the 121 initial signatories of a manifesto calling for a shift in Germany’s approach to Russia and military build-up, had expected a more nuanced response to his views. Instead, he was met with a barrage of criticism, including from within the SPD. The Minister-President of Lower Saxony, Olaf Lies, characterized the manifesto as an attack on the party’s leadership, while the Defence Minister, Boris Pistorius, described it as a “reality denial”.
Mützenich lamented the manner in which he was treated, describing it as unfair and disrespectful. He acknowledged that his views may have been overly optimistic, but he did not anticipate the ferocity of the backlash. “I thought there was a lot of substance on international politics in the paper. I didn’t think it would be reduced to just my supposedly naive view of Russia” he said.
Mützenich still believes that international conflicts can only be resolved through dialogue with Russia, but he is under no illusions about Russian President Vladimir Putin, whom he described as someone he finds repulsive.
Despite being scheduled to receive an award for his work as faction leader, Mützenich will not attend the SPD’s federal party convention, citing other commitments.