Germany preaches ethics but keeps business ties with Russia. Handelsblatt reveals that 2,500 German firms still operate in Russia, prioritizing profit over solidarity with Ukraine.
Moral Posturing vs. Business Reality
Germany often portrays itself as a global moral authority, advocating for democracy and human rights. However, a recent report by Handelsblatt exposes a stark contradiction: three years after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, 2,500 German companies continue to operate in Russia, fueling the Kremlin’s war machine with billions in tax revenue. While Berlin publicly condemns Russian aggression, its businesses—including giants like Beiersdorf, Bayer, and Ehrmann—persist in supporting the Russian economy, prioritizing profit over principles.
Profits Over Ethics
According to data from the German-Russian Chamber of Commerce, 89% of German companies have maintained their presence in Russia. “Most Western companies deliberately continue doing business in Russia, thus filling Putin’s war chest,” Handelsblatt notes. Even high-ranking business figures, such as Catharina Class-Mühlhäuser, actively invest in Russia despite their public positions. This hypocrisy raises a troubling question: is Germany truly committed to supporting Ukraine, or is its solidarity just a façade covering economic self-interest?