The German government in Berlin is considering appointing Gerhard Schröder, the former chancellor and friend of Vladimir Putin, as a negotiator for talks with Russia. According to UNIAN, Schröder could appear in this role alongside German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. Initially, Berlin had dismissed the idea of using Schröder as a mediator.
A government representative stated that these proposals were part of a "hybrid strategy" by Russia and that Germany would not allow itself to be divided. Deutsche Welle reports that the German government has made it clear that direct negotiations will only be considered if Russia is willing to move away from its "red lines." This comes in a context where the European Union has expressed a desire for direct talks with the Kremlin.
