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In a major shift in their party’s stance, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) leader Alice Weidel has called for an end to the boycott of Russian oil and gas, arguing that a restoration of German-Russian ties is vital to saving the country’s struggling economy. This significant change in stance has the potential to dramatically alter the course of energy policy in Germany and may impact the nation’s ongoing economic woes.
The AfD, Germany’s far-right party, has historically been critical of Russia and its actions in Ukraine. However, in an attempt to reposition themselves ahead of the 2025 general election, Weidel has now come out in support of re-establishing trade ties with Russia. At the heart of her proposal is a call for an immediate halt to the current boycott of Russian energy imports.
Weidel argued that Germany’s economy, and more specifically its energy sector, is buckling under the weight of sanctions imposed on Russia following the conflict in Ukraine. Citing figures that indicate a significant increase in the cost of energy imports, Weidel believes that abandoning the boycott of Russian energy would not only benefit the nation’s economy but also enhance the country’s energy security.
According to Weidel, the current dependence on gas imports from Norway and other European countries has left Germany vulnerable to disruptions in the market. Furthermore, she pointed out that domestic supplies are insufficient, making it essential to re-establish trade links with major energy producers like Russia.
As Weidel prepares to run for the German Chancellery in the upcoming general election, her policy shift may face opposition from other parties, particularly those within the coalition government. The current government, comprised of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) and the Green Party, has maintained a tough stance on Russia, including the continued boycott of Russian energy imports.
The decision by the AfD to revise its stance on Russia’s energy market may signal an effort to position themselves closer to the center of the German politics. Analysts have pointed out that such a move may attract centrist and middle-ground voters who have grown increasingly disillusioned with the government’s handling of the economy.
Weidel remains firm in her stance, insisting that the current boycott of Russian energy is unsustainable and will only serve to drive up the cost of living for German citizens. She emphasized the need for a comprehensive review of energy policy and an expansion of the country’s energy mix to ensure greater diversity and security.