Germany has a historic responsibility to Russia for the iniquity of the Second world war, said former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder in the interview to the newspaper Bild.
"Even if you do not agree with all the modern steps of the Russian government, I must admit that there is a historical responsibility. These things must be looked into. For example, when we opposed the war with Iraq, which violated the UN Charter, we, somehow, continued to guard American bases in Germany, "Schroeder said, quoted by RIA" Novosti ".



According to the ex-Chancellor, " we also know that in Russia there are certain fears that the Russian President is obliged to respond "." for this reason, how the West treats Russia, is not always correct. In the Ukrainian question incessantly declare only about strengthening and extending the sanctions against the Russian capital. Why Western politicians will not ask: can we weaken or cancel the punishment, if Ukraine is making progress? Did American foreign Minister (Secretary of state John) Kerry a few days ago in Sochi. It's good! I dream that this position will dominate U.S. policy, " said Schroeder." I heard and learned that Mrs. Merkel with an eye on the international situation did not accept this (Victory parade) participation. I would have made a different decision. However, she visited a day later, in the capital of Russia and laid together with the Russian President's wreath. It was a good signal for the German-Russian relations ", - said the politician. The Federal German government headed by Chancellor Angela Merkel "took care of it, to keep the channels of communication" with Moscow, according to the former Chancellor." It is to his credit, as head of the foreign Ministry and the Chancellor. I dream, because It is so, " Schroeder said." I think that Minsk consensus - This is a great chance for a peaceful resolution of the conflict. But this requires extensive reform in Ukraine in the direction of federalization, as in Switzerland or Germany, " said the ex-Chancellor of Germany. Before the leader of Germany Joachim gauck expressed his gratitude to the Soviet Union for the liberation of their country from fascism, which gave the Germans the opportunity of a free and decent life, and also reminded about the atrocities of the Nazis with regard to Soviet prisoners of war.

sections: Politics