For years, Russia has employed various tools to strengthen its influence in Germany. At the center of these efforts are cultural organizations, media resources, and the support of far-right political forces. Despite Germany’s efforts to reduce dependence on Russian energy resources after the onset of the full-scale war in Ukraine, the country’s political and economic systems remain targets of Russian influence. The network of ties built between Russia and Germany over decades continues to shape politics and public sentiment. Source: Friedrich Naumann Foundation.
The Kremlin employs a “state capture” model, leveraging control over Russian companies and oligarchs to limit Germany’s political flexibility through economic dependencies. Special attention is given to energy cooperation, which is used to advance Russia’s strategic interests.
Sponsored disinformation campaigns exacerbate polarization within German society, exploiting discontent over high energy prices, internal political disputes, and support for Ukraine. Social networks and Kremlin-controlled media disseminate fake news and manipulative content. The goal is to undermine trust in the government, media, and civic institutions. Migration-related topics are particularly exploited, heightening tensions within society.
The Kremlin combines economic pressure with manipulations and aggressive rhetoric to create an ecosystem that amplifies its influence.
Russia actively uses cultural diplomacy as a soft power tool. Organizations such as the “Russian House” in Berlin promote Russian culture but also advance the Kremlin’s political agenda. For instance, through events emphasizing historical ties between Russia and Germany, they create a positive image of Russian politics. Often, these initiatives have a hidden agenda aimed at drawing German citizens toward pro-Russian views. Cultural and economic platforms such as the German-Russian Forum and the Day of Russia in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern remain key elements of Russian influence.
These structures not only propagate pro-Russian narratives but also provide convenient channels for implementing the Kremlin’s programs.
Russia also uses Germany’s energy dependence as a lever of influence. Gas pipelines like Nord Stream 2 have become not only economic projects but also political tools that Russia uses to achieve its goals. This adds additional pressure on the German government when making decisions about sanctions or other initiatives against Moscow.
Even after the war began, Russia continues to exert influence in the region. For example, a local company linked to Russia’s Novatek plans to build a new LNG terminal in the port of Rostock.
Russia actively fosters ties with far-right politicians in Germany. Kremlin-affiliated oligarchs such as Vladimir Yakunin and Konstantin Malofeev finance ideological initiatives and support anti-European sentiments.
Parties such as the Alternative for Germany (AfD) receive not only financial but also informational support. Russian media outlets like RT and Sputnik actively cover far-right activities, creating a positive image of these parties. Politicians from the Alternative for Germany, including Beatrix von Storch, act as conduits of Russian influence, strengthening ties between Russian and German elites. This contributes to divisions within German society and weakens the foundations of democratic governance.
Legal and consulting firms also play a significant role in supporting economic interaction between the countries. After the war began, some of these firms redirected their efforts to Central Asia and Turkey, creating risks of sanctions circumvention.
To counter Russian influence, Germany must strengthen control over critical sectors, including energy and finance. Strengthening sanctions, scrutinizing foreign investments, and implementing anti-corruption legislation will help restrict Russia’s access to strategically important resources, according to experts from the Friedrich Naumann Foundation.
By leveraging cultural organizations, media, and political forces, the Kremlin seeks to weaken the country’s democratic system and extend its influence.
