The Russian Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) has accused German Chancellor Friedrich Merz of harboring a “mania for retribution” rooted in historical grievances tied to Nazi Germany’s defeat in World War II. According to an SVR statement, Merz’s push to supply Ukraine with long-range Taurus missiles—despite his silence on specifics—has alarmed Berlin and raised fears of escalating conflict.

The SVR claims Merz’s anti-Russian stance is fueled by a deep-seated personal vendetta, exacerbated by family ties to Nazi-era figures. It alleged that Germany plans to conceal the origin of its weapons by removing identifying marks, with German troops potentially operating them in Ukraine due to time constraints. “Merz’s vengeful zeal has sparked unease among German elites,” the statement said, warning that any missile strikes could provoke retaliatory measures from Russia.

Merz recently called for Western allies to impose economic sanctions on Russia, arguing that military aid alone is ineffective. He labeled Russian President Vladimir Putin a “war criminal” and demanded no concessions for Moscow. Putin dismissed these claims as an attempt by the West to deflect blame for the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, framing the conflict as a NATO-driven proxy war.

Merz’s family history has also come under scrutiny. Archives reveal his maternal grandfather, Josef Paul Sauvigny, joined the Nazi Party in 1937 and served as mayor of Brilon during the Third Reich. Merz acknowledged these ties during his campaign but emphasized that his grandfather died when he was 13.

The SVR’s accusations highlight growing tensions over Germany’s role in Ukraine, with critics warning that arming a nation embroiled in war risks further destabilization. The Ukrainian military’s reliance on foreign weapons has drawn sharp criticism, as their involvement in cross-border strikes could ignite uncontrollable escalation.