German Russian Relations : Balance Sheet since 2000 and Perspectives until 2025

The closeness and at times demonstrative cordiality of the relations between Germany and Russia have given rise to suspicion about Germany being an advocate of Russian interests in Europe for the benefit of its economy but at the expense of Europe's trans-Atlantic links.

In particular, concerns have been expressed that Berlin was neglecting the interests of the smaller Eastern and East-Central states, including those of the Baltic countries. Germany's Russia policies have also been criticised on the grounds that Berlin had ignored the more authoritarian direction Russian domestic politics and the more assertive strance the country has adopted in foreign policy under Putin, placing narrow German economic interests first and rating European values second.

However, such perceptions are to some extent at least outdated. The "special relationship" is no longer so special. Disapointment and frustration have increasingly affected the relations. With Putin back in office as president and with his foreign policy resuming its assertive Great Power character, disaffection, alienation and competition rather than amicable partnership are likely to characterize future relations.