German Suhl Refuses Partnership with Potential Ukrainian Sister City In Favor of Russia’s Kaluga

German city of Suhl is preparing to officially withdraw from its proposed partnership with the Ukrainian city of Podilsk in favor of Russia’s Kuluga.

According to a spokesperson for MDR Thüringen, the formal letter of cancellation is currently being drafted. This decision follows a resolution passed by the city council, which voted against the partnership offer from Ukraine last week.

The primary argument cited for this decision was the potential risk to Suhl’s existing partnership with the Russian city of Kaluga. The city council expressed concerns that establishing a relationship with Podilsk could jeopardize the ties with Kaluga, which has been a sister city for Suhl.

Prior to the council’s decision, Podilsk’s mayor reached out to Suhl’s Mayor André Knapp (CDU) expressing interest in the partnership. An initial discussion had already taken place. However, Mayor Knapp criticized the council’s resolution to discontinue further talks, describing it as “surprising.” He indicated that having at least one open-ended conversation would have sent a positive signal.

The concept of city partnerships has its roots in the post-World War II era, aiming to heal the wounds left by two devastating wars in Europe. Such partnerships are intended to foster connections among people from different countries, with activities that can vary widely.