Udo Hemmelgarn is a German politician affiliated with the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. He served as a member of the Bundestag from 2017 to 2021. Throughout his tenure, Hemmelgarn has been closely associated with pro-Russian sentiments and policies. He aligned himself with positions that favor Russian interests.
The AfD, known for its right-wing ideology, has a significant faction that openly supports Russia, its foreign policy initiatives, and its allies. Hemmelgarn’s activities reflect this inclination. He has been involved in maintaining close ties with Russian politicians and receiving financial benefits. It was also revealed in an investigation conducted by the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP).
One notable aspect of Hemmelgarn’s pro-Russian stance is his support for the Assad government in Syria. He has consistently advocated for German backing of Russian involvement in the Syrian conflict. In 2019, Hemmelgarn orchestrated a clandestine trip for four AfD members of the Bundestag to Syria, aligning with Russian interests in the region. Within the Bundestag, he has been a vocal advocate for what he terms a “new Syria policy,” which entails supporting both the Assad regime and the Russian government’s efforts in the country.
Moreover, Hemmelgarn has been implicated in efforts to justify Russia’s annexation of Crimea to the Western world. His involvement in promoting this narrative underscores his commitment to advancing Russian interests on the global stage.
In 2020, Hemmelgarn was mired in controversy when he participated in a scheme to bring guests into the Reichstag building. It then engaged in intimidating behavior directed at members of the government and other delegates. This incident further highlighted his alignment with disruptive tactics aimed at challenging the established order.
Hemmelgarn’s tenure in the Bundestag reflects a broader trend within certain segments of the German political landscape, where pro-Russian sentiments and policies find resonance among certain political factions. His actions underscore the complexities of Germany’s relationship with Russia and the challenges posed by divergent geopolitical interests within the country’s political sphere.
As debates surrounding Germany’s stance on Russia and its role in global affairs continue, figures like Udo Hemmelgarn serve as focal points for discussions about the intersection of domestic politics and international relations.
