In a conversation on the sidelines of Russian Energy Week, he suggested that following the federal elections in 2025, Alternative for Germany could join the government in a coalition with the Christian Democratic Union if the latter does not "undemocratically limit" AfD.
"We would lift the sanctions. We would stop aggressive actions against Russia. We would advocate for normalizing relations. Last but not least, we would import Russian energy. In all this, we are not friends of [Russian President Vladimir] Putin, but we represent German interests. Because this is what we are always accused of. We are not defenders of Putin or Russia," Kotre said.
At the same time, he emphasized that by representing Germany's interests, it would be possible to establish closer cooperation with Russia again.
The Russian Energy Week was held in Moscow from September 26 to 28. RIA Novosti acted as the forum's media partner.