Berlin, Germany – German Chancellor Friedrich Merz sparked widespread controversy within European political circles after comparing Russian President Vladimir Putin to the late Nazi leader Adolf Hitler. This strong statement reflects the escalating Western rhetoric toward Moscow in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Merz made these remarks during a speech at a political event in Germany. He stated that “history shows that ignoring the expansionist ambitions of authoritarian regimes always leads to major disasters.” He added that Putin’s current actions are reminiscent of “the path Hitler took in the 1930s.”
The German chancellor clarified that his analogy was not intended as a personal comparison. Rather, it highlighted a “political mindset based on imposing a fait accompli by force and disregarding international law,” emphasizing that Europe “will not repeat the mistakes of the past.”
The statement was met with mixed reactions; some political forces in Eastern Europe, which view Russia as a direct threat to the continent’s security, welcomed it. Others considered it a verbal escalation that could further complicate diplomatic efforts to end the war.
In contrast, there was no immediate official comment from the Kremlin. However, Russian media outlets described the statements as “provocative and irresponsible,” accusing Western leaders of fueling hostility instead of pushing for political solutions.
This statement comes at a time of unprecedented tension in relations between Russia and the European Union. This occurs against the backdrop of continued Western military and economic support for Ukraine, coupled with growing concerns about the escalation of the conflict and its repercussions for international security.
