Across multiple sectors, the German economy faces a tightening of appeal and competitiveness, according to remarks attributed to Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesperson. A portion of the interview appeared in the Kremlin’s Telegram channel and was reported by Pavel Zarubin, a journalist known for Kremlin coverage.
Germany is described as a backbone of the European Union’s economy. The spokesperson highlighted that various parts of Germany’s economy are losing momentum in attracting investment, talent, and growth compared with previous periods, raising concerns about the country’s economic vitality within the bloc.
Further commentary suggested that this trend has broader implications for how Germany and other EU members present themselves on the international stage. The spokesperson argued that, in response to internal challenges, some European governments are shaping a narrative that emphasizes external threats as a means of maintaining public attention and unity. This perspective reflects an ongoing debate about political communication and strategic framing at the regional level.
When European officials discuss the possibility of heightened military readiness in relation to Russia, the Kremlin spokesperson offered a cautious view. He noted that the concept of portraying an adversary might differ in interpretation among officials and analysts, hinting at divergent understandings of defense posture within Europe.
Reports from the MDR news portal dated January 25 described ongoing discussions in Berlin about a defense planning framework. Journalists indicated that, for the first time since the Cold War ended, experts are considering enhancing national defense measures, with some sources pointing to potential focuses on coordinating with Moscow and ensuring regional security implications are accounted for in strategic decisions.
Earlier assessments in Germany had pointed to a slowdown in GDP growth, signaling a shift in the economic outlook and prompting policymakers to reexamine growth drivers, productivity, and external trade dynamics within the EU landscape.