Germany's economy minister branded Greece's demand for €278.7 billion in reparations from World War II as "stupid" on Tuesday, while the German opposition said Berlin should repay a forced loan dating from the Nazi occupation.
Greek Deputy Finance Minister Dimitris Mardas made the demand Monday, seizing on an emotional issue in a country where many blame Germany, their biggest creditor, for the tough austerity measures and record high unemployment connected with two international bailouts totaling €240 billion.
Sigmar Gabriel, who is economy minister and German vice chancellor, called the demand "stupid," saying Greece ultimately had an interest in squeezing a bit of leeway out of its euro zone partners to help Athens overcome its debt crisis.