Feb 12 • 12:34 UTC 🇩🇪 Germany SZ

Munich Security Conference: A Heart for Putin: How the Bavarian AfD Vice Chair Aims to Win Over Peace Activists for Russia

Rainer Rothfuß, the Bavarian vice chair of the far-right AfD party, is positioned as a prominent speaker at a rally against the Munich Security Conference, where he expresses pro-Russian sentiments and aims to attract peace activists to his cause.

Rainer Rothfuß, the Bavarian vice chair of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, has become a controversial figure due to his close ties with pro-Russian groups and continued support for Russia's political system. He has been known to praise the Russian government's leadership under President Putin, even going so far as to associate with Dmitry Medvedev, a Russian politician known for his aggressive rhetoric, including threats against Germany. Rothfuß's connections have drawn scrutiny, especially as they are linked to ongoing investigations into terrorism financing.

This Saturday, Rothfuß is scheduled to be one of the key speakers at a rally organized by anti-establishment 'Querdenker' activists in Munich, showcasing his efforts to mobilize local sentiment against the Munich Security Conference--an event seen as a platform for discussions on current security issues, including the tensions between Russia and the Western world. His participation highlights the growing influence of far-right politics in Germany, as he aims to leverage support from peace movements while firmly positioning himself against mainstream narratives on security and international relations.

Rothfuß's activities raise significant implications for Germany's political landscape, particularly regarding the rise of extremist parties like the AfD. By drawing support from peace activists disillusioned by traditional political avenues, he seeks to reshape public perception of Russia in Germany and diminish the influence of conventional narratives about the conflict in Ukraine and other geopolitical tensions. His influence may pose challenges for policymakers who balance national security with the evolving public sentiment related to Russia.

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