MOSCOW/BERLIN – Former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder is currently in Moscow. This was reported by German television NTV and the magazine Stern, after their reporters spotted the 82-year-old politician at the Kempinski hotel near the Kremlin. The official reason for his visit has not yet been disclosed.

Schröder's presence in the Russian capital has attracted attention, particularly given his long-standing ties to Russia and his personal relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin. In recent weeks, Putin has even suggested that the former German Chancellor could be a suitable European intermediary for potential negotiations between Russia and Europe. The Russian President described him as someone who can be trusted.

According to available information, it is unclear whether Schröder came to Moscow for a private visit or whether he intends to attend the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, which begins on June 3rd in St. Petersburg. According to German media, this possibility is the most likely explanation for his trip. The forum annually attracts prominent figures from politics and business from around the world.

The former Chancellor's visit comes at a time of continued tension between Russia and the European Union, and also in a situation where discussions are taking place about the possibilities of future diplomatic contacts related to the conflict in Ukraine. Schröder's name has appeared in this context as a potential link between Moscow and European politicians, but the proposal for his involvement in a negotiating role has been rejected by both the European Union and Germany. Berlin has made it clear that it does not consider this idea to be realistic.

Schröder, who headed the German government from 1998 to 2005, has long been criticized for his work in Russian energy companies and for maintaining close contacts with the Kremlin even after the start of the war in Ukraine. Nevertheless, he remains one of the most prominent figures in German politics of the last few decades.

Whether the current visit to Moscow is related to political consultations, the economic forum, or a possible meeting with Russian leaders, has not yet been confirmed.

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