German Foreign Minister Wadephul: Russia Shows ‘Ugly Face’ in Navalny Poisoning
Berlin, February 15 – German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has strongly condemned the poisoning of Kremlin critic Alexej Navalny, calling it further evidence of the ruthlessness of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s regime. In an interview with ARD’s ‘Bericht aus Berlin’ on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, Wadephul stated that the regime’s primary goal is self-preservation, with no interest in peace.
“We note that this regime uses all means to keep itself alive,” Wadephul said. He highlighted the illegal war in Ukraine, the bombardment of civilians, and the apparent killing of one of Putin’s greatest opponents. Wadephul described the incident as a “terrible act” that revealed Russia’s, and particularly the Kremlin’s, “ugly face.”
Evidence of Navalny’s Poisoning
Germany, Great Britain, Sweden, France, and the Netherlands confirmed over the weekend that evidence suggests Navalny was poisoned two years ago in a Russian penal colony. Russia has maintained that the opposition politician died of natural causes, a claim met with skepticism from the outset. “Russia had the means in this camp, and it certainly had the motives to kill Navalny,” Wadephul asserted.
Wadephul stressed the importance of public discourse surrounding Navalny’s case. “We are not covering up what Russia, what this regime, what Putin is responsible for. And I believe that is particularly important – especially in a situation where we are repeatedly called upon to talk to Putin, to show openness, to give him the opportunity to come to the negotiating table, which he does not want.”
“A Sign of Cooperation”
Wadephul reflected on the nature of Putin’s regime, stating that its actions demonstrate its true priorities: “Simply and unequivocally the maintenance of its own power and not the establishment of a peaceful situation in Europe and the stabilization of the international landscape.” He noted that Western nations are now working closely together to enforce sanctions and “show Russia its limits.”
During the ‘Bericht aus Berlin’ segment, Wadephul also provided an assessment of the Munich Security Conference and commented on the role of US Foreign Minister Marco Rubio, who traveled to Slovakia and Hungary – two European countries still close to Russia – after the conference. Wadephul dismissed concerns that Rubio’s visits aimed to divide the EU, instead suggesting that Rubio had sent “a sign of cooperation” at the Security Conference.
“Certainly there are issues that also separate us,” Wadephul acknowledged, but emphasized that Rubio had highlighted their cultural, historical, and political commonalities in Munich.
Further Developments and Context
The Munich Security Conference concluded amidst discussions of transatlantic relations. The allegations surrounding Navalny’s death have intensified international scrutiny of Russia’s human rights record and its foreign policy. The concerted efforts of Western nations to impose sanctions and maintain a united front against Russian aggression underscore the gravity of the situation.
Reports from February 15, 2026, indicated that an official statement accused Russia of poisoning Navalny. Earlier on February 14, 2026, it was reported that Navalny died from a frog venom. On February 13, 2026, US Foreign Minister Rubio was notably absent from Ukraine discussions at the Munich conference. Additionally, on February 15, 2026, Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas criticized the “EU-bashing” coming from the US.
The ongoing situation highlights the complex geopolitical landscape and the persistent challenges in diplomatic relations with Russia. The international community continues to monitor developments closely, with a focus on accountability and the protection of human rights.
