Kremlin says Merz's failed German chancellorship bid changes nothing for Russia

MOSCOW

Running for the office of German chancellor, Friedrich Merz’s falling short in the Bundestag vote will not alter the stance of anti-Russian politicians in Europe, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Tuesday.

Speaking at a news conference in Moscow, Peskov emphasized that the Kremlin sees no indication of any potential improvement in Europe's attitude toward Russia.

"We don’t see it, and we don’t believe it," he responded when questioned whether the Kremlin considers the outcome of the vote on Merz's candidacy as evidence that anti-Russian politicians struggle to garner support even from their own party members, potentially compelling Western leaders to revise their "Russophobic discourse."

The initial round of voting took place in the Bundestag on Tuesday. Although 310 lawmakers cast votes in favor, the minimum threshold was 316, leaving Merz’s candidacy six votes short.

Members of the governing coalition reportedly blocked his bid, marking the first time the lead candidate of the winning bloc has failed to secure enough votes in an initial round.

Regarding US President Donald Trump's claim that declining oil prices are compelling Russia to address the conflict with Ukraine, Peskov countered: "Oil prices cannot be a factor influencing Russia's stance on its national interests."

Asked about media reports alleging Ukrainian troops attempted a new incursion into Russia’s Kursk region, Peskov declined to comment, saying the issue falls outside his purview and should be addressed to the Defense Ministry.