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SPD in turmoil: Manifesto calls for a U-turn in foreign policy!
SPD members in MV are calling for a change in foreign policy and talks with Russia. Debate until June 27th.
SPD in turmoil: Manifesto calls for a U-turn in foreign policy!
In the last few days, a letter from several members of the SPD has shaken up the political landscape in Germany. A position paper called a “manifesto” calls for a fundamental turnaround in the party’s foreign policy, particularly closer rapprochement with Russia. Loud Baltic Sea newspaper The signatories criticize the current military rhetoric and the rearmament programs, which they consider to be ineffective.
The prominent supporters of the manifesto include, among others, the former party chairman Norbert Walter-Borjans and the former finance minister Hans Eichel. They argue that the current strategy, supported by Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, which would allow negotiations with President Putin only from a position of strength, is not effective. Pistorius himself describes the manifesto as a “denial of reality” and warns that Putin is undermining diplomatic efforts.
Reactions within the party
Reactions to the manifesto are mixed. SPD party leader Lars Klingbeil has made it clear that he distances himself from this demand and underlines his support for Ukraine. He emphasizes that there will be no reversal in support for Ukraine and makes it clear that Russia is responsible for the prevailing misery. “President Putin could end the war immediately, but he doesn’t,” Klingbeil said, according to the daily news.
In addition to Klingbeil's criticism, other party colleagues also expressed skepticism about the manifesto. Anke Rehlinger, Prime Minister of Saarland, and Juso leader Philipp Türmer have rejected the proposals as impractical. The SPD is aiming for a clear line in the run-up to the party conference from June 27th to 29th, and the letter is causing intensive discussions within the party.
Criticism of previous policies
A central concern of the manifesto is the rejection of the current rearmament policy. The authors are pushing for talks with Russia and calling for a stop to the stationing of new American medium-range missiles in Germany, as these could make the country a target. “The military alarm rhetoric does not lead to greater security, but rather to the destabilization of the region,” says the document, which is also supported by Ralf Stegner, another prominent SPD politician. Loud n-tv There is a clear demand not to increase the defense budget above 3.5 to 5 percent of GDP, which is criticized as irrational.
Overall, the manifesto shows the deep division within the SPD, where some support a return to a more relaxed relationship with Russia, while others support the need for a strong military positioning. The debate is unfolding against the backdrop of complex geopolitical challenges and is being followed with great interest, not least because an online survey on these topics is running until June 27th.