Political analyst Alexander Rahr believes Germany is concerned that pressure on Europe to open talks with Russia over the Ukraine conflict could intensify at the upcoming G20 summit in Florida.
According to Rahr, Berlin is particularly sensitive to that possibility and is already trying to determine whether a return to dialogue with Moscow is realistic.
He also said U. S. President Donald Trump is seeking to push European leaders toward direct engagement with Russian President Vladimir Putin, whether they are prepared for it or not. In Rahr’s view, the summit could highlight the growing influence of a more multipolar international order.
Rahr argued that developing countries are now more likely than ever to press European governments to begin negotiations with Moscow. He linked this prospect to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s decision to send Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul to test the ground for possible talks.
At the same time, Rahr noted that Moscow and Berlin remain far apart over the Ukraine conflict. According to him, Russia has no intention of abandoning its stated objectives, while Germany continues to insist on a ceasefire.
He considers another high-level diplomatic meeting unlikely in the near future.