How will Germany approach Russia?

The new German government and its Ostpolitik

One of the most intriguing questions surrounding the new German government’s policy choices concerns the Kremlin. Will it seek to act as a bridge between Russia and the West, or will it close ranks with Washington against an increasingly belligerent Moscow?

With Russia building up huge numbers of troops on its Ukrainian border, that question is already very pertinent.

A view of the Kremlin. Photo: Pixabay/bluesnap

Vladimir Putin appears convinced he has the upper hand over the West and is insisting that NATO meet implausible demands including accepting no new members nor to position permanent troops in former Soviet states.

No one knows whether Putin’s troop build up is a precursor to invasion or whether he is using it as a blunt tool of diplomacy. The threat seems to be clear though: if the west doesn’t meet Putin’s demands he is prepared to go to war.

On Friday, a week of intense diplomacy will kick off between western partners and Russia, including a third round of talks between Joe Bid…