Overview

• Michael Kretschmer, Deputy CDU Leader, called for reconsidering Russia sanctions, arguing they harm Germany more than Russia.
• Green Party leader Britta Haßelmann labeled Kretschmer a 'Putin-Friend' and criticized his stance as undermining European unity.
• Haßelmann urged CDU leader Friedrich Merz to address what she termed the 'Moscow-Connection' within the party, demanding clear action.
• Other CDU figures, including Thomas Bareiß and Jan Heinisch, suggested potential future normalization of relations with Russia, adding to the controversy.
• The debate over sanctions has escalated during sensitive coalition negotiations between the CDU and SPD, highlighting internal divisions and geopolitical tensions.