Former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder, during a parliamentary commission, defended Nord Stream 2 and dismissed Polish concerns, prompting criticism that his remarks betray a lack of respect for Poland.
Schröder’s “Not Your Interest” Reply
When asked by MPs about contacts with business, Gerhard Schröder responded, “It’s not your interest,” a remark that, according to Reinhard Veser, shows contempt for parliament and for Poland’s concerns over the Baltic Pipeline.
Defense of Nord Stream 2
In an appearance before a Mecklenburg‑Western Pomerania commission on 17 Oct 2025, Schröder defended the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, arguing that it serves Germany’s energy independence from nuclear and coal sources and brings natural gas from Russia “in reasonable terms.”
Reinhard Veser’s Critique
Veser points out that Schröder’s unwillingness to explain the climate foundation’s role—apparently a front for supporting Moscow’s energy policy—demonstrates a deliberate disregard for Polish interests and reveals a network benefiting the Russian regime.
Impact on Polish‑German Trust
Schröder’s stance, according to Veser, has reinforced historically justified Polish mistrust toward Germany even among pro‑European circles, as he labels the dismissal of Polish concerns “peace policy.”
Continuing the “Peace Policy”
During the commission, Schröder referred to past economic cooperation with Russia as a “peace policy” that should persist today, a view that the FAZ article declares unmasked and discredited.
