Recent trips by former SPD chairman Matthias Platzeck to Russia have drawn unexpected support from across the German political landscape. Alexander Gauland, honorary chairman of the Alternative for Germany (AfD), expressed approval in an interview with “Tagesspiegel” stating he “finds it good and right” that Platzeck continues to visit Russia and engage in discussions. He stated he couldn’s “comprehend the indignation” surrounding these trips.
Gauland emphasized Platzeck’s extensive political knowledge stemming from his tenure as former Minister President of Brandenburg and his previous role as chairman of the German-Russian Forum. He described Platzeck as “an experienced, knowledgeable and committed actor in German-Russian relations for many years” arguing that “diplomatic mediation is necessary, especially in politically difficult times”. Gauland added that Platzeck’s efforts aim to “understand the other side, without adopting any of the other side’s positions”. He characterized Platzeck’s ongoing engagement as maintaining a diplomatic role, albeit operating outside of the Foreign Office. Gauland reiterated the importance of a positive relationship between Germany and Russia, asserting that Russia remains a key neighboring country.
Sahra Wagenknecht, co-chair of the newly formed political party “Die Linke – Sozialistischer Weg” (BSW), echoed this sentiment, calling for greater encouragement of similar initiatives. “We should be bolder when it comes to Platzeck” she told “Tagesspiegel”. Wagenknecht argued there are too few German politicians striving to maintain dialogue with Russia, emphasizing the importance of ongoing conversations. She underscored Russia’s significance for Germany’s economy, particularly regarding affordable energy and raw materials.
Wagenknecht further urged Friedrich Merz, the current German Chancellor, to undertake a visit to Russian President Vladimir Putin. She asserted that even those seeking peace in Ukraine are obliged to engage in dialogue with Russia, especially following recent meetings in Washington with Donald Trump.
Reports surfaced last Friday from “Der Spiegel” “Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung” and the Russian opposition platform “The Insider” citing eyewitness accounts that Platzeck has made nine trips to Russia since the end of 2022. Platzeck himself stated his aims are to preserve existing connections and to explore potential pathways to end the ongoing conflict. He further suggested that active diplomacy on multiple levels is integral to maintaining a strong defense capability.