Steffen Kotre, a member of the Bundestag representing the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, has voiced concerns that sanctions imposed on Russia are exacerbating Germany's ongoing deindustrialisation crisis. Speaking at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Kotre argued that German companies would prefer to engage in business with Russia, but are hindered by pressure from the United States. He pointed out that the sanctions have led to a significant increase in energy prices, which, combined with a flawed energy transition policy, has negatively impacted industrial production. Since 2018, Germany has reportedly lost approximately 15% of its industrial output, a trend Kotre deems catastrophic. He noted that while other factors contribute to this decline, the sanctions have intensified the situation, resulting in substantial losses for German firms. Kotre's remarks highlight the broader implications of geopolitical tensions on national economies, particularly in the context of energy supply and industrial stability.