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

Speaking at a news conference in Astana, Kazakhstan, Putin expressed regret for what he called an unintentional offense.

“I once again address her through the media and say: ‘Angela, please forgive me, I didn’t want to cause you grief,'” Putin said. He added that his actions were intended to create a “supportive atmosphere” for their conversation, not discomfort.

The comments come after Merkel revealed details of the 2007 meeting, which she called deeply disturbing. During the meeting, Putin allowed his black Labrador, Konni, to approach Merkel during a photo shoot.

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

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

“I interpreted Putin’s facial expressions to mean that he was enjoying the situation,” Merkel wrote. “Was that a little show of power?” I just thought I’d stay calm, focus on the photographers, it’ll pass.

The event sparked speculation at the time about whether Putin had used the dog to intimidate Merkel. Merkel’s memoir also recounts another incident in 2006, when Putin presented her with a stuffed dog in Moscow, saying “it didn’t bite.”

Addressing the controversy, Putin denied any malicious intent, saying he was unaware of Merkel’s phobia. “If you ever come back – even though I know it’s unlikely – there’s no way I will,” he said.

Footage from the 2007 meeting shows Merkel sitting with a nervous smile as Labrador sniffs, while Putin appears at ease. The dog, Konni, was a gift from Sergei Shoigu, who later became Russian defense minister, to Putin.

Merkel did not respond publicly to Putin’s apology.

With the contribution of AFP