Gerhard Schröder Faces Backlash After Attending Putin's 2026 Birthday Amid Ongoing Ukraine Conflict
Gerhard Schröder's attendance at Putin's birthday amidst renewed Russian attacks on Ukraine has sparked sharp condemnation in Germany, despite some voices defending his potential peace role.
Key details
- Gerhard Schröder attended Putin's birthday in Moscow on October 9, 2026, amid intensified Russian attacks on Ukraine.
- The visit drew harsh criticism from German politicians, calling it a disgrace and betrayal of Europe.
- At least 25 people were killed in a Russian airstrike on Ukraine the same day, deemed a 'birthday gift' by Ukrainian President Zelenskyy.
- SPD's Ralf Stegner defended Schröder, highlighting his unique access to Putin and potential in peace dialogue.
- Schröder's ties to Russian business, including a role with Hyperglobus, have fueled criticism.
Former Chancellor Gerhard Schröder has sparked fierce criticism in Germany after attending Russian President Vladimir Putin’s 74th birthday celebration in Moscow on October 9, 2026. The event coincided with a severe airstrike launched by Russia against Ukraine, resulting in at least 25 deaths and over 100 injuries — described by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as a 'birthday gift' to Putin.
Schröder’s presence in Moscow during intensified hostilities has been widely condemned by German politicians across parties. Green politician Katrin Göring-Eckardt called it a “disgrace,” while Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, chair of the European Parliament’s Defense Committee, labeled the visit a “betrayal of Europe.” Critics highlighted Schröder’s longstanding ties to Putin and Russian energy projects such as the Nord Stream 2 pipeline. They also questioned Schröder's health justifications for avoiding parliamentary scrutiny, pointing out he was fit enough to travel to Russia.
Despite the political backlash, SPD figure Ralf Stegner defended Schröder, emphasizing his unique access to Putin and potential role in facilitating dialogue toward a ceasefire. Putin has previously mentioned Schröder as a possible mediator in peace talks, though German officials remain skeptical. Schröder’s recent role on the board of the Russian supermarket chain Hyperglobus has further fueled concerns about his ongoing Russian connections.
The controversy underscores Germany’s sensitive position as it navigates its relationship with Russia amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.
