A major investigation by Der Spiegel has revealed extensive military cooperation between Germany and Russia during Chancellor Angela Merkel"s government, continuing until Russia"s annexation of Crimea in 2014.
Key findings from the investigation indicate that Russian officers received training at Germany"s Altmark combat center, which utilized advanced simulation technology from Rheinmetall. Additionally, Berlin approved a €1 billion deal to build similar high-tech training facilities in Russia, a project that was halted only after the annexation of Crimea.
The cooperation, which began in 2011, involved tactical instruction and equipment exports, reflecting a political directive aimed at strengthening Moscow"s military capabilities. The revelations are based on declassified documents and interviews, highlighting Berlin"s efforts to deepen ties with Russia prior to 2014, which were subsequently severed amid international sanctions.
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