Signs of the Times
Slowly, Germany’s political class has caught up with the present. Chancellor Olaf Scholz and his Green Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck are starting to prepare Germany for a future that the country did not reckon with.
On the Sidelines
Amid dramatic shifts caused by Russia’s war of aggression, Germany is getting a lot of flak for dragging its feet and acting too slowly. The Scholz government is risking its leadership role in Europe.
A Sandwiched Scholz
Once again, Chancellor Olaf Scholz only moved after the pressure got too high. His smaller coalition partners are now in a good position to drive government policy.
Zeitenwende in Slow Motion
One month into the proclaimed new foreign policy era, Germany is struggling to take on board what this requires.
A Revolution in German Security Policy
Vladimir Putin and his illegal war of aggression against Ukraine have achieved something no German politician has been able to: Setting the country on the path to becoming a serious military power.
From Washington to Moscow
Chancellor Olaf Scholz is stepping onto the world stage. And he is doing better than his critics suggest. His Social Democrats, meanwhile, are breaking with their Ostpolitik, which lately only meant “good relations” and “dialogue,” irrespective of how badly Russia behaved.
Scholz’ Sharp Learning Curve
Berlin is getting a lot of flak for appearing to be the West’s weakest link when it comes to dealing with Russia. But coalition cohesion is better than expected, and Scholz is ready to give his foreign policy a more definite shape.
A United Front on Russia Policy
The German government had seemed split on how to respond to another possible Russian invasion of Ukraine, including what role Nord Stream 2 should play. However, Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock have now made sure there’s clarity.
A Chance to Shine
The new German government has made an energetic start in foreign affairs. Chancellor Olaf Scholz and his ministers have a good chance to shine on the international stage, if they play their part in deterring Russia from another military attack.
Scholz Takes Charge
As Germany’s new chancellor prepares to be sworn in, the shape of his incoming government suggests that quite some change is in store for Germany’s European and foreign policy.
Germany Cautiously Steps into the Post-Merkel Future
Prolonged talks? Messy politics? Merkel still not gone by New Year’s? Actually, Germany may have a new government more quickly than many think.
Operation Olaf
With strategic foresight and remarkable focus, the Social Democrats’ candidate Olaf Scholz is now leading the race to replace Angela Merkel. What to expect?