AfD leader urges lifting Russia sanctions and halting Ukraine aid

A leader of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has called for the complete removal of sanctions against Russia and an end to German military aid for Ukraine, following the party's success in regional elections. Tino Chrupalla made the statements on the ZDF television channel. Chrupalla argued that sanctions are "nonsensical" and have caused significant damage to the German economy. He cited Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's energy ties with Moscow as an example of "true sovereignty," claiming Hungarians pay a low price for gas. He also stated the party opposes German-made drones being used for attacks on Russian territory. The AfD's growing support, particularly in eastern Germany where polls show 45% approval, could potentially influence Berlin's policy toward Ukraine. A former Ukrainian consul in Munich previously warned that an AfD victory might lead to changes in Germany's military and refugee assistance to Ukraine.