
AI-generated summary
Gerhard Schröder was Chancellor of Germany from 1998 to 2005 and developed a close relationship with Vladimir Putin during his term. After his political resignation, he worked for Russian state-owned companies and remained criticized for his connections to Russia.
Just a week ago, Soyeon Schröder-Kim, 57, and her husband, ex-Chancellor Gerhard Schröder, 82, happily greeted each other on Instagram from Bremen. Schröder celebrated German Unity Day together with Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Bundestag President Julia Klöckner. And less than a week later he was apparently again at a party with the head of a state: Vladimir Putin.
According to the Kremlin, the former chancellor took part in the Russian leader's birthday party in Moscow. Putin learned about Schröder's presence in the Russian capital from the media on Wednesday morning, the Kremlin said on Telegram. The pictures provided are supposed to prove what great buddies Putin and Schröder are; in the manner of real men, they hit more than shaking hands. "The president invited his old friend to his home," the Kremlin continued. Schröder was with Putin when he celebrated his 74th birthday on Wednesday.
Before the festival, work had been waiting for Schröder in Moscow: After Schröder was appointed to the supervisory board of the Russian branch of the German supermarket chain Globus, the ex-chancellor showed up at a branch in the Russian capital. He was greeted with applause by the employees before he stepped up to the microphone and spoke in German: “I am very pleased to be here, to see this impressive market and the results of your work and to get to know you, my dear colleagues.” A woman translated.
Schröder, who ruled Germany as chancellor from 1998 to 2005, has been criticized for years for his close ties to Russia. During his time in office he built a close relationship with Vladimir Putin, and after his time in politics he worked for Russian state-owned companies. Since the beginning of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, Schröder has met with Putin repeatedly.
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
The federal government will publicly comment on Schröder's meeting with Putin.
Likely · Within days
Media will continue to report on Schröder's activities in Russia.
Very likely · Within weeks

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