Scholz tells Putin democracy’s a fire he can’t put out
In a recent interview with the Muenchner Merkur, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz faced a cheeky question about whether Russian President Vladimir Putin might welcome Ukraine’s move closer to the European Union. His answer was blunt, cynical, and a little humorous—almost as if he were spicing up a political cocktail for the ages.
“The spark of democracy” – what it really hides
- Putin’s cautious calculus: The Russian leader seems afraid that the unstoppable glow of democratic values might spread across his borders. “He’s scared,” Scholz says, “and we’re not the only ones who can feel that heat.”
- Europe’s growing community of law‑based democracies: Scholz reminds Putin that the EU isn’t a walled garden—it’s a living, breathing neighborhood that’s getting tighter and tighter.
- Scholz’s sneer: “We’re all growing closer together. That’s the big picture,” he quips, implying that putting the EU together is less a threat and more a natural, inevitable outcome.
Russia’s fiery comeback
- Maria Zakharova’s social‐media retort: She accused the Germans of “sparking” on Russian soil again, warning, “We’ll not allow any more fires.” It’s a classic Russian reaction—if you’re angry, shout something that sounds relatable.
- “Putin is a champion of law-based democracy”: By contrast, Zakharova implies that the very discussion of democracy is a provocation.
EU status for Ukraine
- EU’s “candidate” move: Last week the European Commission added Ukraine to the queue of aspiring members. “It’s not just a suggestion—Scholz supports it,” the chancellor says, hinting that EU membership could serve as a political buffer against Russian aggression.
- An opportunity wrapped in hope: The policy, according to Scholz, isn’t just a diplomatic gesture; it’s a chance to build a future where “the EU is a safe, democratic haven.”
Energy prices and a smug claim
- Cascading costs: Scholz warned that soaring energy prices are probably here to stay. “They’ll stick around for a while,” he cautioned.
- Russia’s gas‑flow excuse: Putin’s government claimed they cut gas flows because of missing parts—charged with sanctions. Scholz called the explanation “not plausible” and called it a side hustle for the Kremlin to bypass sanctions.
In short, Scholz’s interview, with its quick wit and rooted humor, underscores a pivotal geopolitical tug of war: A leaders’ behind‑the‑scenes appraise the “spark of democracy” and try to decide if it’s a fire we can contain or a wildfire we must extend. The EU’s candidate status for Ukraine adds fireworks to this drama, while soaring energy bills keep the global audience glued to the scoreboard.
