- In 2007, Vladimir Putin brought a Labrador to a meeting with Angela Merkel, despite her well-known fear of dogs.
- Merkel described the incident as a calculated “demonstration of power” in her memoir Freedom.
- Seventeen years later, Putin apologized, claiming he was unaware of her phobia and meant no harm.
Did Putin really not know about Merkel’s fear?
In a meeting at Sochi in 2007, Angela Merkel found herself face-to-face with a large black Labrador, brought by Vladimir Putin. For Merkel, who had a deep fear of dogs, the encounter was anything but casual. In her memoir, the former German Chancellor described the incident as an intentional move to assert dominance and create discomfort.
However, during a trip to Kazakhstan 17 years later, Putin publicly apologized. He insisted he had no knowledge of Merkel’s fear and claimed his intention was to create a “pleasant atmosphere.” Merkel’s team, however, had reportedly informed the Kremlin in advance about her phobia, adding doubt to Putin’s statement.
A clash of perceptions or calculated power play?
Merkel’s recollection of the incident paints a picture of strategic intimidation, aligning with broader criticisms of Putin’s leadership style. Bringing a dog to the meeting, especially when explicitly asked not to, could be seen as an attempt to gain a psychological upper hand. On the other hand, Putin’s later apology suggests either a genuine misunderstanding or an effort to rewrite history and soften his image.
Conclusion
This anecdote from Merkel’s memoir sheds light on the nuances of international diplomacy, where every gesture can carry weight. Whether deliberate or not, the 2007 Labrador incident has become a symbolic moment reflecting the complexities of Merkel and Putin’s relationship. The recent apology, though decades late, underscores the lingering impact of personal dynamics in global politics.
Leave a Reply