German chancellor denies plans to meet Putin before upcoming elections

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Sunday dismissed claims that he plans to visit Moscow and meet Russian President Vladimir Putin ahead of Germany’s general election on Feb. 23.

Speaking at a Social Democratic Party (SPD) event in Berlin, Scholz categorically rejected the allegations, calling them baseless. “This is a false claim. You cannot do this. It is extremely inappropriate, and there is no foundation for it,” he said.

The chancellor also criticized the spread of misinformation, stating, “I believe sincere people should be outraged when false claims are made.”

The accusations originated from Christian Democratic Union (CDU) lawmaker Roderich Kiesewetter, who suggested in a post on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) that “We should prepare for an election campaign surprise. There are increasing signs that Chancellor Scholz will travel to Moscow or meet Putin before Feb. 23.” Kiesewetter later deleted the post.

Government spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit responded to the controversy, announcing that legal action might be pursued. Speaking to the German Publishing Network (RND), Hebestreit described Kiesewetter’s remarks as defamatory.

The allegations and their subsequent denial come amid heightened scrutiny in the lead-up to the German elections, with political figures accusing opponents of using unverified claims to sway public opinion.