AI-generated summary
Gerhard Schröder was Chancellor of Germany from 1998 to 2005 and has long maintained good relations with Vladimir Putin. He has been criticized for years because of his ties to Russian energy companies and his behavior towards Russia, especially since the beginning of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine.
According to Russian information, ex-Chancellor Gerhard Schröder (SPD) took part in the birthday party of Russian head of state Vladimir Putin in Moscow. Putin learned about Schröder's presence in the Russian capital from the media on Wednesday morning, the presidential office said on Telegram. "The president invited his old friend to his house."
Putin celebrated his 74th birthday on Wednesday. The presidential office published photos showing the two men smiling and shaking hands.
Russian media reported last week that Schröder, who has long had good relations with Putin, had been appointed to the supervisory board of the Russian branch of the German market chain Globus. The former Chancellor traveled to Moscow for this occasion.
Schröder was Chancellor from 1998 to 2005. The 82-year-old is friends with Putin and has been criticized for years because of, among other things, this close connection and his commitment to Russian energy companies. Since the beginning of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, the former Chancellor has met repeatedly with Russia's head of state.
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
There will be further criticism of Gerhard Schröder over his meetings with Vladimir Putin.
Very likely · Within weeks
The SPD could discuss Schröder's further behavior internally.
Likely · Within months

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