Russia and EU policy spark debate in Germany and Switzerland

Political debates regarding Russia and the European Union have intensified across Germany and Switzerland. In an interview with Roger Köppel, AfD politician Björn Höcke expressed a stance against the current structure of the European Union, stating, “this EU must go.” Regarding Russia, Höcke argued that people in the East view Russians as individuals with interests rather than inherently warlike, while criticizing the German government's foreign policy.

In Germany, discussions surrounding Russian domestic politics highlight the risks faced by opposition figures. Critics, including writer Alexander Estis, have warned against those seeking peace negotiations with Vladimir Putin, suggesting that the Kremlin cannot end the war due to internal political motives. Meanwhile, young activists supporting the effectively banned Jabloko party in Russia face significant personal risks and fear of increased military mobilization following upcoming elections.