Merkel considers Germany’s purchase of Russian gas during her tenure to have been the right decision

Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel believes it was the right decision for Germany to actively purchase Russian gas during her tenure because it was cheaper.

She expressed this view in an interview with France 2.

“Trading gas with Russia has a very long tradition. It began during the Cold War and continued during my time in office. I don’t think it was a mistake because we had Russian gas at an advantageous price. It was a win-win situation for both sides,” the former German chancellor said.

Merkel noted that after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Germany “had to seek and purchase more expensive gas elsewhere because prices skyrocketed.”

“But it would have been the same had we stopped [buying Russian gas] earlier during my tenure. I think it was good to have the cheapest gas available,” Merkel added.

It’s worth recalling that not long ago, Merkel highlighted the benefits for Germany of constructing the Nord Stream 2 pipeline. She described securing affordable gas for the German economy as “one of her tasks.” According to her, we are now witnessing the consequences of high energy prices for Germany.

As Western media have reported, Germany’s support for Ukraine, coupled with its rejection of Russian gas, has significantly impacted its automotive and manufacturing sectors.