Sotschi: AfD politicians Urban and Kotré on Russia trip

Jörg Urban stands at the lectern in Russian Sotschi, the wall behind him shining in dark blue, with the words ‘Brics-Europe’ glowing in white letters. Urban speaks in German, with a translator providing the Russian version of his words. And what he says is likely to resonate well with Russian authorities. Urban emphasizes the existence of political forces in Germany ‘that do not want to continue down the path of confrontation and sanctions.’ Part of the Symposium’s agenda is discussing energy issues and Russia contacts.

Steffen Kotré, another AfD politician, also participates in the Brics-Europe symposium in Sotschi. Kotré, like Urban, presents views that support dialogue and cooperation with Russia. The discussions held in this forum seem to align with the Russian government’s perspective on international relations. While in Sotschi, Kotré emphasizes the importance of fostering positive relationships with Russia for mutual benefit.

Alice Weidel, the party leader of AfD, expresses criticism of the Russia trips made by Urban and Kotré. Weidel’s reservations about the visits suggest internal disagreements within the party regarding its foreign relations stance. At the same time, Russian Prime Minister Medvedev expresses support for AfD’s approach to engaging with Russia, indicating a positive reception from Russian officials.

The symposium provides a platform for AfD politicians like Urban and Kotré to engage in discussions about energy issues and strengthen contacts with Russia. The presence of AfD members in Sotschi highlights the party’s interest in fostering diplomatic relations with Russia. By participating in international events like Brics-Europe, AfD aims to promote dialogue and cooperation between Germany and Russia.

The speeches delivered by Urban and Kotré in Sotschi underscore AfD’s position on foreign policy, emphasizing the importance of dialogue over confrontation. The discussions at the symposium reflect the party’s efforts to establish connections with Russian counterparts and explore potential areas of collaboration. Despite internal criticism, AfD’s engagement with Russia through events like Brics-Europe signals a willingness to pursue diplomatic relations.