Schroder affirmed that the supply of affordable Russian energy and the use of German technology in its extraction would make the process more environmentally friendly.

Slandering this is simply absurd. On the contrary, we need such forms of cooperation with Russia, the former Social Democratic leader underscored to the said newspaper.

The former chancellor also rejected the image of Russia “as an eternal enemy,” highlighting its rich culture and historical ties with Germany.

Local analysts in energy geopolitics point out that, despite the current official stance, the debate on the future relationship with Moscow remains open in Germany, given its past dependence.

Schroder’s call revives the discussion about the economic cost of breaking with Moscow and the possible paths to future political normalization in Europe.

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