Saxony Leader Urges Talks on Germany's Russia Policy

(MENAFN) Michael Kretschmer, the premier of Saxony in eastern Germany, has urged the federal government to take a more “positive approach” toward Russia.

This strategy, he proposed, should involve efforts to restore the Nord Stream gas pipelines. Kretschmer, who is also a deputy leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), expressed his views during an interview with a news agency on Sunday.

He criticized the current confrontational stance towards Moscow, stating it has been counterproductive and has significantly harmed Germany’s economic well-being.

According to Kretschmer, the nation’s economy depends on sourcing around 20 percent of its gas from Russia to remain stable.

He asserted that “Nord Stream is a possible opening for a conversation with Russia,” emphasizing that resuming dialogue would benefit both sides.

Kretschmer also highlighted the economic consequences of high energy costs, noting that many businesses are already relocating due to unsustainable production expenses.

If the economic outlook does not stabilize, he warned, it will be Germany — not Russia — that must “change [its] course in one or two years.”

His opinion stands in clear contrast to that of CDU leader and federal chancellor, Friedrich Merz. Recently, Merz supported a new wave of EU sanctions, which include banning the use of Nord Stream pipelines entirely and obstructing any revival of energy cooperation with Russia.

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