Schröder's Putin Birthday Visit Sparks Political Backlash in Germany | DW News

Former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder has ignited a political firestorm after appearing at celebrations for Vladimir Putin's 74th birthday in Moscow. The Kremlin said Putin invited his "old friend" after learning Schröder was already in the Russian capital on business linked to supermarket operator Hyperglobus. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called the meeting "totally immoral," while Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil described it as "completely unacceptable." DW Political Correspondent Simon Young analyzes the fallout from Schröder's visit, exploring why it has provoked such strong reactions in Germany and beyond. Schröder has long been criticized for his close ties to Putin and his role in Russian energy projects, even after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The visit is seen by many as a betrayal of German interests and a slap in the face to Ukraine. The video also examines the broader implications for German-Russian relations and the domestic political landscape. It considers whether Schröder's actions could lead to further sanctions or isolation, and how they might affect the public's trust in politicians. With tensions between Russia and the West at a post-Cold War high, this story underscores the delicate balance of diplomacy and the consequences of personal alliances.