Gerhard Schröder Casts a Dark Shadow over Berlin's Foreign Policy

Author: Editors Desk Source: Del Spiegel

February 15, 2022 at 19:49

Former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder Foto: Roman Pawlowski

In the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Germany is cutting a rather ambivalent figure. Former Chancellor Gerhard Schröder is one major reason why. Can the Social Democrats and the country find its way out from under his shadow?

Gerhard Schröder lives with his wife in a rather inconspicuous prewar building in the Zoo Quarter of Hannover. The apartment is plenty big for two, at 95 square meters (1,020 square feet), but it’s hardly a palace.

It would be nice to speak with the former German chancellor and hear what he has to say about all the excitement surrounding him. To hear his thoughts on the controversy that erupted over his comment that Ukraine should finally stop with all the "saber rattling." And on the widespread disgust with the work he does for Russian companies at a time when his friend, Russian President Vladimir Putin, is posing such a threat to Europe. Does he recognize the problem? Does he care?

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