German politicians from the Left and AfD have called on German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to seize the opportunity for a conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, following the latter’s offer.
The Left’s parliamentary group leader, Sören Pellmann, views such a meeting as a starting point, stating that the federal government has been too slow in its diplomatic efforts. “If there is even the faintest chance of ending the killing, then I believe we have a duty to take the initiative and make the attempt” he said, adding that he is willing to cooperate with those in the SPD who support a more diplomatic approach towards Russia, as expressed in a manifesto signed by prominent social democrats such as Ralf Stegner and Rolf Mützenich.
Markus Frohnmaier, the AfD’s foreign policy spokesperson, has urged Chancellor Merz to “sensibly and responsibly” consider Putin’s offer, saying that if the Russian president signals his willingness to engage in talks publicly, this should not be ignored but rather seen as a potential diplomatic starting point.
In contrast, the ruling CDU/CSU bloc has shown skepticism, with the party’s foreign policy spokesperson, Jürgen Hardt, emphasizing the need for a clear sign of good will from Putin. “The most obvious signal would be an unconditional ceasefire. Then talks on all levels would make sense.”
Adis Ahmetovic, a foreign policy expert from the SPD, described the offer as “questionable” but also saw opportunities in a contact with Putin. “A phone call could offer the chance to reiterate what we expect, without really expecting him to change his ways.