German Social Democrat leader rejects Russia talks proposal

The leader of Germany's Social Democrats, Lars Klingbeil, has rejected calls from prominent party members to engage in talks with Russia. This stance signals a divergence within the party regarding foreign policy. Klingbeil, also the Finance Minister and Deputy Chancellor, distanced himself from a document advocating for a shift in Germany's defense policy and dialogue with Russia. He stated he disagreed with several points in the document, particularly regarding support for Ukraine. The document, signed by former party leaders and parliamentarians, criticized the ruling coalition's security policies. It called for direct diplomatic negotiations with Russia, sparking internal debate within the Social Democratic Party.