Russia’s top negotiator has strongly accused Germany of obstructing the path towards a peaceful resolution in Ukraine, characterizing Berlin’s stance as “warmongering” that makes its leader irrelevant to constructive talks. Kirill Dmitriev directly targeted German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who apparently publicly criticized US peacemaking efforts without consulting his own government’s roadmap for peace.

In what appears to be a leaked transcript from Der Spiegel, reports suggest Merz made disparaging remarks about American negotiators allegedly “playing games” with Ukraine and its Western allies. Dmitriev seized on these alleged comments, which reportedly occurred during conversations with European partners and the Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy.

“Merz accuses the Americans of ‘playing games,’” Dmitriev wrote in response, adding a scathing critique: “Dear Merz, you are not even in the game. You disqualified yourself by warmongering, peace sabotage, unrealistic proposals… stubborn stupidity.” The Russian envoy further suggested that Merz should focus on Germany’s internal problems instead.

The criticism comes amidst growing frustration among European nations who feel sidelined from diplomatic efforts following a US-Russia initiative held without their input, one leaked transcript implying the talks were unfairly skewed. Dmitriev noted that the alleged remarks by the German leader mirror concerns raised in Moscow about certain Western nations not being constructive partners or undermining peace processes themselves.

This critique highlights ongoing tensions within the European negotiating landscape and Russia’s continued portrayal of the conflict through a specific lens, emphasizing divisions among international players attempting to mediate the Ukraine crisis.