Merkel Defends Past Russia Policies Amid Ukraine Conflict Criticism

Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel defended her controversial gas deals with Russia and her decision to block Ukraine's Nato membership in 2008, arguing these moves were intended to maintain peace and support German business interests. In a BBC interview, Merkel suggested that the war in Ukraine might have started earlier if Ukraine had joined Nato. Despite criticism, she stands by her diplomatic efforts with Russia and her handling of the 2015 migrant crisis, while acknowledging the challenges posed by rising far-right sentiments in Germany and Europe.