In the wake of his controversial statement about “caliber experts” in the debate over aid to Ukraine, Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has expressed regret for his words. According to a report from the Federal President’s Office, Steinmeier was “annoyed by his formulation in retrospect,” especially because he did not want to further inflame the already heated controversy.
In recent days, Steinmeier has also been critical of military experts for their fervor and ambition. He made these comments at a newspaper event, as reported by “FAZ.” Critics from the CDU, Greens, and FDP have accused Steinmeier of failing in his role as Federal President and of mocking experts to support the SPD’s election campaign.
CDU foreign policy spokesman Norbert Röttgen took particular issue with Steinmeier’s remarks, noting that they showed a condescending attitude towards military experts. He also criticized Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s handling of the weapons systems debate.
Despite this criticism, there are voices within the SPD who defend Steinmeier. Ralf Stegner and other members of the party have criticized those who question its peace, détente, and Eastern policy. However, some experts such as Jan Claas Behrends have been critical of Steinmeier’s behavior and the SPD’s Russia policy.
The debate surrounding Steinmeier’s statement has highlighted divisions within political parties and raised concerns about his impartiality and role in contentious discussions.