The recent election victories of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in Thuringia and Saxony have sparked celebration on Russian state television. The results have been portrayed as a win for Moscow, following the party’s promotion of peace on Russia’s terms.

Russian Approval and Influence

Russian propagandists have highlighted the AfD and the leftist Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance’s success as beneficial to Russia due to their views on Ukraine and sanctions. These parties advocate for lifting sanctions against Russia and a ceasefire in Ukraine, aligning with Moscow’s interests.

Russian Perception of German Instability

Experts believe Russia views the rise of far-right and far-left parties in Germany as advantageous, destabilizing the political system and weakening support for Ukraine. The Kremlin aims to demonstrate the fragility of Western democracies compared to Russia’s political stability.

The Far-Right Narrative

Russian media refrains from labeling the AfD as far-right, preferring terms like “eurosceptic” and “ultrapatriot.” Despite controversial statements from AfD leaders, Russia defends the party against Western accusations of fascism.

Russia’s Strategic Support

Russia’s defense of the far right in Germany reflects its interests in maintaining a favorable narrative and denying the party’s extremist tendencies. The court ruling on Nazi slogans and controversial statements by AfD leaders do not deter Russian support.

Edited by: Andreas Illmer