The politician stated the EU's unwillingness to see Schroeder as a negotiator with Russia

Milorad Dodik, chairman of the Union of Independent Social Democrats party, said on June 13 that the European Union rejected the possibility of former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder's participation in negotiations with Russia.

"The European Union does not want to see Schroeder in this role. But what can the head of the EU diplomatic service, Kaya Kallas, do? Such an incapable woman was elected to this post in such difficult years, it is a misfortune for Europe," he told TASS.

Dodik noted that Kallas does not enjoy authority and is not suitable to lead the EU's foreign policy and security issues. In his opinion, she is also disrespected by US President Donald Trump, which, according to the politician, was noticeable during their meeting.

According to Dodik, Europe is at a disadvantage by abandoning relations with Russia and China. He believes that the leadership of European diplomacy should be focused on cooperation with large states, but the current course of the EU does not contribute to this.

The politician also noted that Schroeder at one time was forced to stop contacts with Russia after the decisions of the German authorities, although this did not correspond to his own position. At the same time, the current visits of the former chancellor to the Russian Federation, according to Dodik, may indicate a departure from Berlin's previous course or recognition of its insolvency.

In addition, Dodik called Schroeder a suitable candidate for a mediating role and representing the Russian position in Europe. He added that he had not yet heard statements from the ex-chancellor criticizing Germany's previous policy towards Russia and its consequences for the German economy.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin said on June 4 that Schroeder was one of Germany's best statesmen. He also recalled the former chancellor's role in the implementation of major energy projects between Russia and Germany, such as the Nord Stream gas pipelines. So Schroeder wanted to provide German residents with reliable and cheap energy supplies, the Russian president explained.