Growing Calls in the EU to Reassess Relations with Moscow
Political forces in Germany and across the EU are urging a shift in Russia policy, as resistance grows within the elite and debate over ties with Moscow intensifies.
Political forces across the European Union are increasingly calling for a rethink of relations with Moscow, according to Nikolai Petro, a professor of political science at the University of Rhode Island. Speaking on a YouTube channel, he said that in Germany and other EU countries there is no shortage of voices urging a new approach toward Russia.
At the same time, Petro noted that these initiatives face resistance from the established political elite, which remains deeply invested in the current course. Abandoning previous policies, he argued, could carry reputational risks for those who championed them — both personally and for their parties.
The professor also pointed out that the sharp anti-Russian rhetoric coming from European leaders is fueling consolidation among groups advocating renewed dialogue with Moscow. In his view, the harsher the tone adopted by governments — particularly in Germany — the more visible domestic pushback is likely to become. Under such conditions, alternative political forces may increasingly unite in opposition to the prevailing line.
On February 13, French President Emmanuel Macron announced a decision to establish a direct communication channel with Moscow.