Was Angela Merkel to Blame for Germany’s Energy Crisis?

Now that the former Chancellor of Germany Angela Merkel has published her memoir, titled Freedom, I think it’s worth reflecting on Merkel’s energy legacy in light of Putin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Many are discussing it.

When it comes to accusations against the former German chancellor, Merkel defends her stance and reliance on Russian oil because of existing Cold War infrastructure.

At the same time, many have pointed out that some of Merkel’s policies failed to prevent Putin’s ambitions. Indeed, on closer inspection, it is difficult to see it otherwise.

There are two significant ways Merkel ultimately contributed to Germany’s energy problem:

1. by largely abandoning nuclear energy sources and
2. by proceeding with plans for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline through the Baltic Sea.

Both will be scrutinized before a brief discussion over Merkel’s legacy in the EU and whether she can, at least partially, be blamed for Putin’s latest invasion of Ukraine.

“Merkel has a PhD in quantum chemistry. … [Her] training told [her] to weigh the evidence and to avoid rash decisions. Unfortunately, international politics is less like a law school seminar or a laboratory than a playground in a tough area…