Söder Criticizes AfD for Alleged Russian Ties at Young Union Conference

At the annual gathering of the Young Union in Rust, Markus Söder, the leader of the Christian Social Union (CSU) and Bavarian Minister-President, voiced strong criticism of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, focusing on its perceived connections with Russia. Söder accused the AfD of maintaining a close relationship with the Russian government and emphasized his party's stance against any form of cooperation with the far-right group.

Söder asserted that the AfD exhibits significant ideological proximity to the Russian leadership, referencing incidents where AfD members of parliament have reportedly invited groups to the Russian embassy in Berlin. He maintained that only the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the CSU are positioned to effectively counter the AfD's influence in German politics. Responding to concerns over the Union's rhetoric, Söder stressed that the CDU and CSU are fundamentally different from the AfD, particularly in their interpretation of democratic freedoms and values.

The CSU leader predicted intense political confrontations in upcoming election campaigns, especially in eastern German states, due to the AfD's increasing popularity. He reaffirmed that neither the CSU nor the CDU would enter into any form of alliance with the AfD. According to Söder, his party's commitment to democracy, independent judiciary, and the protection of minorities is rooted in its Christian values, setting it apart from right-wing populist groups.

The AfD is currently classified by Germany's domestic intelligence agency as partly confirmed right-wing extremist. Several members of the party are under suspicion or face charges related to extremism. Despite this, the party continues to gain support in certain regions of Germany.

On the same platform, CDU party leader Friedrich Merz reiterated his rejection of any cooperation with the AfD. He emphasized that the ideological differences between the Union and the AfD are substantial and that the CDU remains committed to maintaining its democratic legacy, referencing prominent figures from the party's history. Merz also stated that Germany would remain open to skilled migrants, but highlighted the need for stricter measures against irregular migration.

Internally, the AfD has experienced debate regarding its position on Russia. Party co-chairs Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla recently released a joint statement confirming their ongoing cooperation and commitment to representing German interests. While Weidel publicly criticized Russian actions, including the violation of airspace over Estonia and Poland, Chrupalla downplayed any threat posed by Russia to Germany.

The discussion at the Young Union conference underscores the ongoing polarization in Germany's political landscape, particularly regarding foreign policy and the boundaries of acceptable political cooperation. The Union parties have made clear their refusal to collaborate with the AfD, citing fundamental differences in values and policy approaches, especially in relation to Russia and democratic principles.