Understanding German trade interests in Russia

Dear Reader,

In recent weeks we have heard a lot about the German government still being reluctant to put the lives of Ukrainians civilians ahead of its own economic interests.

Last month I looked at energy dependency and at how much German industry relies on natural gas.

There is another aspect to this too, though. Ukrainian officials have called out German companies for refusing to end their business interests in Russia.

Alexander Rodnyansky, an advisor to the Ukrainian president, has said that German companies like Bayer and Henkel are helping to finance the Russian war.

So, what role do trade relations play? I’ve put together some charts and background information that might be enlightening.