'Angela, forgive me': Here's why Putin has publicly apologised to former German chancellor Merkel

Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a rare public apology to former German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Thursday (November 28), addressing an incident during their 2007 meeting in Sochi that Merkel later described in her memoir.

Speaking at a press conference in Astana, Kazakhstan, Putin expressed regret over what he called an unintended offense.

“I once again appeal to her via the media and say: ‘Angela, please forgive me, I did not want to cause you any heartache,’” Putin said. He added that his actions were meant to create a “favourable atmosphere” for their conversation, not discomfort.

The comments came after Merkel revealed details of the 2007 encounter, which she described as deeply unsettling. During the meeting, Putin allowed his black Labrador, Konni, to approach Merkel during a photo session.

Merkel recounted in her memoir how she tried to remain calm as the dog moved close to her.

She disclosed that German officials had explicitly informed their Russian counterparts about her fear of dogs before the meeting. Despite this, the Labrador’s presence appeared deliberate.

“I interpreted Putin’s facial expressions as meaning that he was enjoying the situation,” Merkel wrote. “Was this a small demonstration of power? I just thought stay calm, concentrate on the photographers, it will pass.”

The event stirred speculation at the time about whether Putin had used the dog to intimidate Merkel. Merkel’s memoir also recounts a separate incident in 2006 when Putin presented her with a stuffed dog in Moscow, reportedly commenting that “it did not bite.”

Addressing the controversy, Putin denied any malicious intent, saying he was unaware of Merkel’s phobia. “If you ever—though I know it is unlikely—come again, I will not do it under any circumstances,” he said.

Images from the 2007 meeting show Merkel seated with a nervous smile as the Labrador sniffed around, while Putin appeared at ease. The dog, Konni, was a gift to Putin from Sergei Shoigu, who later became Russia’s defense minister.

Merkel has not publicly responded to Putin’s apology.

With inputs from AFP