At the very beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine, Germany was very cautious. But two years later, despite the many years of active Russian propaganda, a quite good relations with Russia, as well as the presence of a significant number of supporters of Russia, whom Moscow has literally cultivated for decades and still uses it to promote its agenda, Germany is already one of the leaders in the supply of military aid to Ukraine with clear pro-Ukrainian position. For example, a December 2022 opinion poll by the ARD TV channel (known for its pro-Russian position and ties) on German citizens’ support for the idea of supplying Leopard tanks showed 43 % “against”. Another striking example was the recent scandal with the German journalist Hubert Seipel (who works for the same ARD), who received more than 600 thousand euros from the Russian Federation.
However, Russian influence on the political sphere, despite the remaining bursts of activity, is fading. SPD leader Lars Klingbeil said it was “a mistake not to distance ourselves from the Putin system earlier.” The Chairmen of the SPD faction in the Bundestag, Rolf Mützenich, admitted that he “completely underestimated” Putin’s imperial thinking.
Now, at a time when Russian propaganda is intensifying its efforts to reduce military assistance to Ukraine, the German leadership remains adamant in supporting Kyiv in the fight against Russian aggression. In particular, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is confident that his country should be prepared to increase support for Ukraine in case of weakening support from other Western countries.
“One day we might have to fight a defensive war,” said Bundeswehr Inspector General Carsten Breuer. Russia’s accelerated armament, attempts to intensify its offensive in Ukraine and aggressive statements against NATO countries testifies to absolutely unpeaceful intentions of the Russian Federation.
Joint opposition to Russian aggression side by side with Ukraine is the key to security and stability in Europe, which is Russia’s ultimate goal.