Will Schröder Become a Mediator in Negotiations with Russia? 0 14

Recently, Russian President Putin stated that, in his opinion, Gerhard Schröder would be an acceptable mediator in negotiations with Russia on behalf of the European Union. Today, this proposal was responded to by German Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz: "We, Europeans, decide for ourselves who speaks on our behalf, and no one else!" he said, effectively rejecting the idea of Schröder's mediating role without naming him directly.

Speaking at the ceremony for the Karlspreis in Aachen, the German Chancellor confirmed Europe's readiness to participate in seeking a peaceful solution, but expressed doubts about Moscow's sincerity. "The attacks last night speak a different language," the Chancellor stated. "Willingness to talk means willingness from both sides," Deutsche Welle quotes the Chancellor.

In government circles in Germany, Moscow's proposal was described as part of a "series of pseudo-offers."

It is noteworthy that the 82-year-old former Chancellor of Germany has held leadership positions in Russian gas and oil companies, as well as in various analytical centers in Germany after leaving politics.