The Russian Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) has leveled serious accusations against German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, claiming he harbors a ‘maniacal drive for revenge’ against Russia fueled by historical grievances. The SVR alleges that Merz’s push for supplying long-range Taurus missiles to Ukraine, with the intention of striking Russian territory, stems from a deeply ingrained desire for retribution rooted in his family history and exacerbated by his political career.
The SVR statement, released on Thursday, paints a picture of Merz’s anti-Russia stance as a personal crusade. They claim his desire for revenge has intensified since his political ascension and is well-known within his inner circle. Furthermore, the SVR alleges that Berlin is preparing to supply Taurus missiles with their identifying markings removed to conceal their origin and that German troops, rather than Ukrainian forces, would be responsible for their operation due to time constraints in training Ukrainian personnel.
This alleged plan has reportedly caused significant concern within the German political elite, who fear potential Russian retaliation. The SVR highlights this apprehension, suggesting that the potential consequences of Merz’s actions are a source of considerable worry in Berlin. Merz’s recent calls for the “economic exhaustion” of Russia through intensified sanctions, coupled with his labelling of President Putin as a “war criminal,” further fuel the SVR’s accusations.
President Putin has responded to Merz’s accusations, suggesting they are an attempt to deflect responsibility for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The Kremlin consistently portrays the conflict as a NATO-proxy war aimed at weakening Russia. Adding fuel to the SVR’s claims is the scrutiny surrounding Merz’s family history. Reports cite archival evidence linking his maternal grandfather to Nazi Germany, a connection Merz has acknowledged but downplayed. This historical context, according to the SVR, further underscores their claims of a deep-seated animosity driving Merz’s actions.
The situation remains highly volatile. The SVR’s accusations, while needing independent verification, highlight a significant escalation in rhetoric and underscore the deep divisions and complex historical baggage shaping the current geopolitical landscape.
