Moscow has extended invitations to far-right German politicians to attend the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum in June, according to reports from Politico. The forum, sometimes called 'Putin's Davos,' represents Russia's flagship annual economic gathering, traditionally drawing international business leaders and political figures to St. Petersburg.
The invitations to members of Germany's Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party arrive at a particularly sensitive moment in German politics. Berlin currently faces critical decisions regarding continued military and financial support for Ukraine, with debates intensifying in the Bundestag over the scope and duration of German commitments.
In Russia, as in much of the former Soviet space, understanding requires reading between the lines. The timing of these invitations appears carefully calibrated to influence German domestic politics during a crucial period for European security policy.
The St. Petersburg forum, first held in 1997, has evolved into a key platform for the Kremlin to project economic confidence and cultivate international relationships. Despite Western sanctions imposed following Russia's actions in Ukraine, the event continues to attract participants, particularly from countries with governments skeptical of robust European support for Kyiv.
This outreach to German far-right politicians fits within a broader documented pattern of Russian engagement with European populist and nationalist movements. From France's National Rally to Italy's League party, the Kremlin has maintained connections with political forces that often advocate for reduced sanctions, energy dependency on Russia, and skepticism toward NATO expansion.
The AfD has consistently opposed German military aid to Ukraine and called for direct negotiations with Moscow, positions that align with Kremlin preferences. Some party members have faced criticism for meetings with Russian officials and for echoing Russian narratives about the conflict.
Western intelligence services have repeatedly documented Russian efforts to support European far-right movements through various channels, though the extent and effectiveness of such influence operations remain subjects of intense debate among analysts and policymakers.
