Germany's Russia Reset: Wadephul Meets Lavrov Amid Ukraine Crisis

The German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul met his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov in New York on Saturday, marking the first time they have met since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Russia claimed that Germany requested the meeting and tried to restrict media access to it. However, Wadephul said he wanted to meet Lavrov due to a growing crisis in food exports, likely referring to Ukraine's reduced ability to export wheat.

The two ministers also discussed the recent incident of a Russian drone bomb found at Leipzig airport, with Wadephul stating that it crossed a line and that Germany was 'ready to resist and defend ourselves'. Despite this tough talk, Wadephul expressed his desire to see Russian President Vladimir Putin later this year at a G-20 summit in Miami.

The meeting has sparked controversy, with some diplomats questioning the timing and tone of the encounter. Meanwhile, Trumpet editor Gerald Flurry highlighted Germany's history of partnering with Russia while expanding their influence in Europe, raising questions about Wadephul's comments signaling a potential return to this pact.