Germany’s “Plumbers of Power” Lack Far-Sightedness
Just before passing its halfway mark, the coalition government of Chancellor Olaf Scholz has been hitting the financial buffers. Sadly, a general fiscal rethink is unlikely.
Squaring the Circle
Germany has strongly sided with Israel in the aftermath of the brutal attack by Hamas, and for good reasons. However, this poses questions for German foreign policy that will be difficult to address.
Germany Should Reengage with a United Kingdom in Flux
Seven years after the Brexit vote shocked Germany, it’s time for the two countries to rediscover common ground. Unfortunately, Berlin is sitting on its hands.
A False Restart
Before the summer break, Chancellor Olaf Scholz’ coalition had pledged to stop squabbling and do a better job at governing. But old habits die hard.
What to Expect from Germany’s China Strategy
Long in the making and paused for a while, Berlin’s new approach to its biggest trading partner will be published soon. The actions taken by the Scholz government speak of a new direction already.
Boris Pistorius’ Budget Battle
Germany’s new defense minister has not set a foot wrong since taking over from Christine Lambrecht in January. However, it is the outcome of the current fight over the defense budget that will likely define his time in office.
The Scholz Way
The German chancellor took his time before committing to sending Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine. In doing so, he has maxed out the benefits for the war-torn country. But there are complicating side effects.
Germany’s National Security Strategy Is in Limbo
The chancellery and the finance ministry have put the brakes on the process that was supposed to lead to the publication of Germany’s first-ever National Security Strategy in early February. Olaf Scholz seems to have written one alone already.
Germany’s Misguided Self-Satisfaction
Germany feels it has turned a corner recently in terms of foreign policy. But its self-congratulation may be premature.
Scholz Goes It Alone on China
Having pushed through a deal in which a Chinese state-owned company takes a minority share in one of Hamburg’s port terminals, the German chancellor is getting ready for his solo trip to see President Xi Jinping in Beijing. It is a missed opportunity.
Annalena Baerbock’s Fighting Spirit
As foreign minister, the leading Green has given German foreign policy a fresh voice. She has been pushing Chancellor Olaf Scholz to do more to support Ukraine with weapons and even seems not to have given up on the country’s top job.
Berlin’s Summer of Discontent
As Germany braces itself for the tough months ahead, its squabbling politicians need to get a grip and focus on what really matters most: ensuring that Ukraine wins.