![Obama and allies seek firm, united response as Russia grips Crimea Obama and allies seek firm, united response as Russia grips Crimea](https://www.cer.eu/sites/default/files/styles/spotlight/public/images/spotlight/in_the_press/2014/russia_europe_flags_sl-1395664747.jpg?itok=2mM6WC2X)
Obama and allies seek firm, united response as Russia grips Crimea
A special role in the crisis has fallen to Germany, Europe's biggest economy, and to Chancellor Angela Merkel, a Russian speaker who is familiar with Mr Putin and in a stronger position at home than other leaders. "Merkel certainly gets it," said Charles Grant, director of the CER.