Gerhard Schroeder has backed off from taking a top role at Russian energy giant Gazprom (GAZP.MM) , dealing a setback to Germany’s gas lobby as it seeks to keep the energy lifeline from Russia open. The former German chancellor played a critical role in establishing the energy bond between the countries and defending it over two decades. Earlier this month, following a barrage of criticism, Russia’s state-owned oil company Rosneft (ROSN.MM) said Schroeder was stepping down from its board. On Tuesday, shortly after the European Parliament had urged his blacklisting, Schroeder said he would not take a nomination to Gazprom’s supervisory board. Germany had also closed Schroeder’s taxpayer-funded office amid a public outcry over Russia ties. It marks the end of a controversial career that had seen him forge a friendship with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Putin underscored Schroeder’s importance as a guarantor for […]