Unveiling the Kremlin’s Alleged Influence on the AfD: A Dangerous Game?

In September 2022, a department head at a meeting with the deputy head of the Kremlin administration, Sergey Kiriyenko, was tasked with developing a new concept for the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. The goal was to increase the AfD’s poll numbers and achieve a majority in elections at all levels. According to a report by Spiegel, this document was formulated by strategists in Russia.

However, AfD Chief Tino Chrupalla dismissed the report as unfounded, stating that he was not aware of any alleged paper developed by the Kremlin. The alleged document paints a negative picture of Germany, mentioning deindustrialization, the migration of companies, and a failing German economy. It also criticizes the current traffic light government and praises past leaders like Willy Brandt, Helmut Schmidt, and Helmut Kohl.

Despite some AfD members denying knowledge of the alleged paper, others see similarities in the messaging. The content of the document aligns with some AfD politicians’ views, advocating for an interest-driven policy rather than one based on values. The report highlights similarities between the alleged Kremlin paper and the AfD’s stance on issues like deindustrialization, competence of politicians, and the relationship with Russia.