Sociology

Government (linguistics)

Administration (probate law)

Politics

Epistemology

Arbitration

Philosophy

Political economy

Political science

Conciliation

Skepticism

Disinformation

Parliament

Linguistics

Social media

Cambridge Review of International Affairs

'Understanding' for Vladimir Putin's Russia is present across Germany's political spectrum, in business sectors, and within society/the electorate at large. It was boosted by the outcome of the 2017 election which saw a far right party, the Alternative für Deutschland (AfD), join Die Linke, a far left party, as a 'pro-Russia' force in parliament. Together they obtained 22% of the vote. Voices in centre parties also urge 'dialogue' and conciliation with Russia. Extra-parliamentary advocates are more strident in their support. Germany's vulnerable coalition government is confronted by Russian disinformation exploiting historical memory, discontent with policies, and scepticism towards the US, a situation exacerbated by the Trump administration. This combination of developments generates a multidimensional, underestimated, and partly realised potential for more destabilisation of Western alliances and Eurasian security.

‘Understanding’ for Russia in Germany: international triangle meets domestic politics