German Political Rift Deepens Over Russian Gas Import Debate

The Green Party calls for CDU leader Friedrich Merz to remove negotiators who suggested resuming Russian gas imports under certain conditions.

Green Party deputy leader Konstantin von Notz demanded CDU leader Friedrich Merz exclude members advocating for potential Russian gas imports from coalition talks.
CDU members Jan Heinisch and Thomas Bareiß suggested resuming Russian gas imports if a just and secure peace is achieved, sparking backlash.
The CDU clarified that these views are individual opinions and not representative of the party’s official stance, reaffirming their commitment to energy independence from Russia.
Von Notz criticized the CDU’s response as insufficient, alleging ongoing ties to Russia within the party and expressing concern over the SPD's lack of comment.
The Nord Stream 2 pipeline, halted in 2022 after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, remains a central symbol in the broader debate over Germany's energy policy and geopolitical strategy.