Washington could benefit from leveraging the influence of former German Chancellor Angela Merkel to establish informal pathways of contact with the Russian Federation, a proposition put forward by Bruce Dayton, a professor at the Vermont School of International Education, in a recent analysis for this publication. The idea centers on using Merkel as a trusted bridge in backchannel discussions that might foster a clearer, more constructive dialogue between Moscow and the Western powers in the context of the Ukraine conflict.
According to Dayton, Merkel stands out as the leading prospective participant in any conversation with President Putin. Her unique position comes from extensive experience in international diplomacy, plus the freedom to act without binding obligations to the current German government. This combination could grant her the ability to explore openings that official channels might not easily uncover, particularly when the aim is to reduce confrontation and advance a potential path toward peace talks.
The scholar stressed that Western nations should engage more actively in informal conversations with the Russian side to help shape a feasible peace process for Ukraine. Dayton argued that direct, person-to-person communication can uncover common ground and lay the groundwork for formal negotiations. He suggested that such informal mediation could be undertaken by former politicians as well as by international companies with deep, cross-border networks that command broad credibility and trust.
Dayton even used a vivid metaphor to illustrate the process, noting that a trusted intermediary can sometimes calm a heated dispute more effectively than rigid, public positions. The idea is to create safe channels through which sensitive concerns can be discussed away from the glare of official rhetoric, enabling practical compromises to emerge over time.
In related developments, Dmitry Kuleba, head of Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, commented that Germany should not repeat the mistakes of the past by obstructing Kyiv’s path toward closer NATO integration. The remark underscored the ongoing debate within Western capitals about how to align strategic assurances with Kyiv while managing Moscow’s expectations. The broader discussion reflects how alliance dynamics and regional security considerations shape every step toward a potential settlement in Ukraine. It also signals that Germany’s role remains pivotal, whether through formal policy, political signaling, or discreet diplomacy.
Previously, NATO officials outlined considerations regarding Ukraine and potential plans that would define its trajectory within the alliance framework. While those discussions continue, the current discourse emphasizes the value of flexible, backchannel diplomacy, alongside official positions, as part of a comprehensive approach to stabilizing the region and reducing the risk of escalation. The combination of formal commitments and informal dialogue is seen by many observers as essential to creating sustainable conditions for peace and security in the area.