Germany’s Russia Policy in the post-Merkel Era
29
September 2021 — 3:00PM TO 4:30PM
Anonymous (not verified)
3 September 2021
Online

The speakers will discuss John Lough’s new book ‘Germany’s Russia Problem’ (Manchester University Press, July 2021)

History overshadows Germany’s relations with Russia, greatly complicating Berlin’s efforts to design effective policies to manage the challenge posed by Russia to Europe’s stability. After 1991, Germany focused heavily on ‘soft’ power by promoting people-to-people contacts and encouraging trade. Grateful for Moscow’s blessing of re-unification and anxious to avoid confrontation, German policymakers ignored Russia’s drift to authoritarianism, the latter’s growing confidence fuelled by high commodity prices and its gradual alienation from Europe.

Confrontation was inevitable once Russia no longer felt bound by the security principles that ended the Cold War. Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 was a deep shock to the German elites. It caused a sharp shift in Russia policy as Chancellor Merkel led a European response to stabilise Ukraine that included imposing economic sanctions on Russia. However, true to its old instincts, Germany continued to promote energy co-operation with Russia. Its support for the expansion of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline damaged relations with Ukraine and several EU and NATO member states that saw Germany disregarding broader European interests.

Angela Merkel is the European leader with the greatest experience of dealing with Moscow and arguably the best understanding of Russia thanks to her East German background and her knowledge of Russian. With relations between Berlin and Moscow at their lowest ebb since Cold War days, what is the outlook for Germany’s Russia policy after Merkel’s departure?

This event will be held in person at Chatham House and online. Registration is open to the invited experts and Chatham House members.

Due to the expected popularity of this event, we will organize a ballot for guests wishing to attend in person. To enter the ballot, please register your interest with Anna Morgan before 11:59pm on Sunday 26 September 2021. Successful ballot entrants will be sent confirmation of their place on Monday 27 September 2021.

For guests wishing to participate virtually you can book your place using the ‘register interest’ button.
 

Source: Chathamhouse Events