In a recent press conference, Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a heartfelt public apology to the former German Chancellor Angela Merkel. Putin has said the words, “Angela, please forgive me”. Let’s dive into what went down.
Putin apologized to Angela Merkel, the German chancellor, on Thursday, November 28, 2024, claiming that he did not mean to scare her with his black Labrador Retriever, Koni during a meeting with her in 2007.
Angela Merkel, who has a well-documented fear of dogs, accused the Kremlin of inviting the dog as a “demonstration of power” and taking delight in her discomfort. She recalled the tense encounter in her memoir, “Freedom,” released on Tuesday, November 26, 2024.
Answering questions from journalists on his state visit to Kazakhstan, Putin noted, “First, as for the “dog” scene. In fact, there was such a case. Mrs. Merkel came to visit us, and my dog Kon came out. Frankly speaking, I didn’t know she was afraid of dogs. If I had known, I would never have done that. On the contrary, I wanted to create a relaxed, pleasant atmosphere. I proceeded from the fact that in Europe and in Germany, as far as I know, I lived there after almost five years, to the animals, home is very positive.
Speaking at a press conference in Astana, Kazakhstan, Putin expressed regret over what he called an unintended offence. “Angela, please forgive me, I did not want to cause you any heartache,” he said, adding that his actions were meant to create a “favourable atmosphere” for their conversation, not discomfort.
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Putin added: I thought she would be pleased. I later found out she was afraid of dogs. That is what happens. As far as I remember, she said she was bitten by a dog as a child. Well, it happens with psychological injury. When I found out, I apologized to her. I said, “Angela, I’m sorry, I didn’t know about it.” You see, she is persistent and worthy of the best apology, even in the book she wrote about it. Honestly, it was strange for me, unexpectedly.
We are talking to you, and It will be in the media. I’m talking to her again, saying, “Angela, I’m sorry, please. I didn’t want to hurt you. On the contrary, I wanted to create a favorable atmosphere for our conversation. I offer my Apologies. If someday – I know it’s unlikely today – you’ll come, I won’t do it.”
Merkel, for her part, has yet to respond publicly to Putin’s apology. One can only imagine her reaction. After all, a little humility can go a long way in diplomacy.
What do you think? Let’s keep this conservation going. Is this a genuine act of contrition, or is a more strategic motive at play? Let us know in the comments below.
