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Merkel criticizes ‘Putinversteher’ witch hunts
(MENAFN) Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel has condemned the use of the term Putinversteher ("Putin understander") as a way to silence discussions about Russia’s perspective, arguing that it stifles debate and hinders diplomatic efforts.
In an interview with Berliner Zeitung on Friday, Merkel expressed disapproval of the label, which is often used to criticize those who acknowledge Russian concerns over NATO expansion. “It’s not helpful, because discussions must take place. Diplomatic initiatives need to be planned in advance so they are available when needed,” she said.
Merkel rejected the notion that trying to understand Moscow’s position equates to supporting it. “The accusation of being a Putinversteher is inappropriate. It’s used to shut down conversation,” she stated.
When asked if she had ever been called the term, Merkel responded, “No one has ever called me that—it’s a strange word. Understanding Putin’s actions and considering his perspective is a necessary part of diplomacy. It does not mean supporting him.”
Her comments come amid an ongoing debate in Germany about its approach to Russia, where the term Putinversteher is frequently used to discredit calls for diplomatic engagement. Merkel warned that ignoring Russia’s interests could increase the risk of future conflicts. “There is no justification for his [Putin’s] invasion, but discussing Russia’s interests must be allowed,” she argued.
Merkel played a central role in brokering the Minsk agreements in 2015, a framework designed to reintegrate Ukraine’s Donbass region. However, following the 2022 escalation, both Merkel and former French President François Hollande admitted that the accords were never intended to achieve peace but were instead used to buy time for Kiev to strengthen its military with NATO’s support.
In an interview with Berliner Zeitung on Friday, Merkel expressed disapproval of the label, which is often used to criticize those who acknowledge Russian concerns over NATO expansion. “It’s not helpful, because discussions must take place. Diplomatic initiatives need to be planned in advance so they are available when needed,” she said.
Merkel rejected the notion that trying to understand Moscow’s position equates to supporting it. “The accusation of being a Putinversteher is inappropriate. It’s used to shut down conversation,” she stated.
When asked if she had ever been called the term, Merkel responded, “No one has ever called me that—it’s a strange word. Understanding Putin’s actions and considering his perspective is a necessary part of diplomacy. It does not mean supporting him.”
Her comments come amid an ongoing debate in Germany about its approach to Russia, where the term Putinversteher is frequently used to discredit calls for diplomatic engagement. Merkel warned that ignoring Russia’s interests could increase the risk of future conflicts. “There is no justification for his [Putin’s] invasion, but discussing Russia’s interests must be allowed,” she argued.
Merkel played a central role in brokering the Minsk agreements in 2015, a framework designed to reintegrate Ukraine’s Donbass region. However, following the 2022 escalation, both Merkel and former French President François Hollande admitted that the accords were never intended to achieve peace but were instead used to buy time for Kiev to strengthen its military with NATO’s support.
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