AfD Leader Holds Gazprom Talks, Backs Nord Stream Revival

Markus Frohnmaier, a senior leader of the Alternative für Deutschland (AfD), has held meetings in St Petersburg with Gazprom executives and a close adviser to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Following the talks, he openly called for the Nord Stream pipeline to resume operations and for Russian gas supplies to Germany to be restored.

Frohnmaier argued that high energy prices are a primary driver of Germany's economic slowdown and that Berlin should consider all available options to address the situation.

The visit drew additional scrutiny because it took place against the advice of the German Foreign Ministry. Frohnmaier met with individuals subject to Western sanctions in connection with the war in Ukraine.

The AfD has long advocated a more pragmatic approach towards Moscow and has criticized the current government's Russia policy. The party is also gaining ground in domestic polls ahead of regional elections this autumn.

(reuters, mja)