Political scientist Sokolov urged not to place high hopes on the meeting between Putin and Scholz
Photo: Aleksey Nikolskyi / Reuters
The upcoming talks between German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Russian President Vladimir Putin should not be high hopes, as this will be the politician's first visit to Russia as head of state. In an interview with Lenta.ru, Artem Sokolov, an expert at the Valdai Club and a researcher at the Center for European Studies at IMI MGIMO, called for this.
The political scientist called the upcoming meeting difficult. “Firstly, a large number of problems and contradictions have accumulated in Russian-German relations that need to be discussed. Secondly, the whole situation around Ukraine also does not encourage the dialogue to continue easily and simply, and some decisions to be made quickly,” Sokolov explained.
He noted that a successful outcome was the discussion by the parties of at least the most key topics for them. Among them is the fate of the Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline, as well as issues related to restrictions on the work of the German television and radio company Deutsche Welle in Russia and a ban on the broadcasting of the German-language television channel RT DE in Germany. “A positive result is possible in certain areas, in separate small plots, but in general it will be a meeting-acquaintance, and, of course, I would like this acquaintance to take place in a benevolent and trusting atmosphere,” Sokolov said.
At the same time, the specialist did not rule out that Scholz could prove himself as a negotiator just as confidently as his predecessor, Angela Merkel. According to him, the authority of Germany within Europe was based not only on the personal qualities of the ex-chancellor, but also on the economic power of Germany. At the same time, Scholz himself acquired solid managerial experience and skills in building international relations, including with Russia, while holding the post of burgomaster of Hamburg.
On February 15, Scholz will hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. As expected, the German leader will declare the unacceptability of the buildup of Russian forces on the border with Ukraine and warn of readiness to impose “painful sanctions” in the event of an invasion of the country.
