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.
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.