German Ambassador Lambsdorff Steps Down, Warns of Possible Large-Scale Russian Mobilization
Outgoing German Ambassador to Moscow Alexander Graf Lambsdorff warns that Russia may conduct a second large-scale mobilization of men fit for military service after the Duma election in September 2026. In an interview with Spiegel, he states that Kremlin chief Vladimir Putin shows no signs of being ready for serious negotiations to end the war in Ukraine, appearing determined to continue fighting to win. Lambsdorff paints a bleak picture of Russia's domestic political development, describing a state-driven transformation toward a nationalist and reactionary society and a 'creeping re-Stalinization.' He notes increasing isolation of Russians from Western information sources, with authorities restricting access to international online platforms. Regarding peace talks, he expresses skepticism, citing Russia's 'absurd' demands such as reducing NATO troops in Europe to 1997 levels. Lambsdorff leaves after three years to become ambassador to Israel, succeeded by Clemens von Goetze.
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