DW Berlin Briefing - Inside German politics
DW Berlin Briefing is a weekly podcast that analyzes how major events like Russia's war in Ukraine and shifts in European security are influencing Germany and the world. Hosted by Nina Haase, Michaela Küfner, and Richard Walker, it provides insights for students, journalists, and policymakers on Germany's political direction and global significance. The podcast also offers a newsletter and YouTube channel for additional content.
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If Europe wants independence, why does it keep turning to the US?
Europe wants growth, innovation and strategic autonomy. But can it become more competitive without becoming more dependent on the US? Max Hofmann speaks with Cecilia Malmström and Kai Steinecke on Berlin Briefing.
From intelligence scandals to Russia’s shadow war: Ex-Estonian defense chief Hanno Pevkur discusses Europe’s security challenges
At the Warsaw Security Forum, Nina Haase spoke with the ex-Estonian defense chief about Germany’s recent spy scandal and Russia. The bigger question: How can intelligence shared with another country be protected?
Former German Minister Habeck: Russia remains the biggest threat
From the Warsaw Security Forum, Nina Haase and Alexandra von Nahmen speak with Robert Habeck on Russia, the Arctic’s strategic role and democratic resilience.
Former BND head arrested: Can Germany still be trusted with secrets?
As Germany's former spy chief is accused of selling state secrets, Berlin Briefing looks at the allegations, the fallout for the BND intelligence agency & the wider impact of Germany's biggest espionage scandal in years.
Can Ukraine still count on Germany?
Friedrich Merz says support for Ukraine is a matter of national interest. This week's Berlin Briefing asks whether a far-right AfD surge and Russia's return to the negotiating table spell trouble.
Germany's great divide: Is Friedrich Merz losing the center?
In this Berlin Briefing, Nina Haase, Michaela Küfner and Max Hofmann discuss the far-right AfD party's ambitions, why Berlin's Left Party win is no Mamdani moment, and what's next for Germany's embattled chancellor.
Germany's security gamble: More than an arms deal?
Is Germany buying security or dependence? This week on Berlin Briefing: Michaela Küfner, Nina Haase and Ines Pohl unpack Germany's latest US weapons deal, NATO's future and Washington's expectations.
AfD and Russia: Why Saxony-Anhalt matters for Germany
The far-right AfD won a record 44% in Saxony-Anhalt. Is this a regional protest vote, or a broader shift in German politics? DW's Nina Haase, Max Hofmann, Michaela Küfner and Matthew Moore discuss the results.
Saxony-Anhalt elections: Interview with AfD candidate Ulrich Siegmund
Ahead of Saxony-Anhalt's state elections, Berlin Briefing's Max Hofmann talks to Matthew Moore about his interview with AfD lead candidate Ulrich Siegmund and the radical vision he and his far-right party want to enact.
Not at war, yet under attack: Germany's Russia challenge
Germany has officially blamed Russia for a suspected hybrid attack at Leipzig airport. Hosts Nina Haase and Max Hofmann discuss what that means for Germany and NATO with DW’s Teri Schultz and Roman Goncharenko.
Berlin Briefing #100: Germany, Europe & the world – Your questions, our answers
For our 100th episode, DW’s Nina Haase, Michaela Küfner and Max Hofmann have come together with colleagues to answer the toughest questions that you've sent us and reflect on the future challenges facing Germany.
Saxony-Anhalt elections: Interview with CDU candidate Sven Schulze
Ahead of the state elections in Saxony-Anhalt, Berlin Briefing host Michaela Küfner interviewed Sven Schulze, state premier and the CDU's candidate.
Saxony-Anhalt: An election that could change Germany? | Berlin Briefing Podcast
Could a regional vote by less than 3% of the German electorate reshape national politics and redefine the center parties' response to the far right? The AfD leads polls ahead of the Saxony-Anhalt election. In this Berlin Briefing, DW's Nina Haase, Michaela Küfner and Matthew Moore talk to Dr. Roland Abold of infratest dimap about what the election means for Germany's political future.
Germany's climate crisis: Why politics struggle to keep up
Germany is heating and drying up faster than ever. Yet climate change is not high on the agenda of many politicians.
Together with sustainability researcher Maja Göpel and SPD climate spokesperson Jakob Blankenburg, DW’s Berlin Bureau Chief Max Hofmann examines the growing gap between climate reality and political action and asks: can Germany keep up with climate change?
“Was it Russia?” Is the Leipzig drone attack part of a hybrid war?
DW’s Michaela Küfner asks security analyst Hans-Jakob Schindler, disinformation expert Julia Smirnova and DW Riga Bureau Chief Juri Rescheto to piece together what we know about the drone incident at Leipzig airport. How exposed is Germany to what the government admits are “daily attacks in a hybrid war”? And what, if anything, can we make of the awkward silence from German officials on Russia?
Is Germany's pension reform reopening the East-West divide?
A landmark pension reform is triggering backlash from eastern Germany and exposing deep divisions within Chancellor Friedrich Merz's party.
Why is Germany's pension system under pressure? Why the resistance? And could this become a serious threat to the government itself?
In this episode of Berlin Briefing, Max Hofmann and Michaela Küfner speak with leading economist Veronika Grimm to find out.
Germany's summer crisis: A cabinet reshuffle gone wrong?
An ad-hoc cabinet reshuffle backfired on German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. With political egos flying and hurt feelings all around, could inner-party frustration threaten government stability? DW's Michaela Küfner and Nina Haase separate political drama from the facts with Reuters' Chief Correspondent Andreas Rinke: Is Merz better at strengthening his government or creating problems for himself?
Merz Under Pressure: What the Berlin Pride Attack Changes for Germany
The attack on Berlin Pride has triggered a political debate. Calls for tougher security measures are getting louder, and pressure is mounting on Friedrich Merz's government amid cabinet reshuffling. DW's Michaela Küfner and Nina Haase discuss with government advisor on extremism Rebecca Schönenbach: What does this moment mean for Germany's politics, its open society, and upcoming state elections?
Burnham's German plan: Why Britain's new PM is looking to Europe
Brexit was supposed to pull Britain away from Europe. Yet 10 years on, Britain's new prime minister is championing ideas that look strikingly familiar to Germans – ideas which Berlin itself is starting to question. This Berlin Briefing deciphers the similarities between Andy Burnham and Germany‘s chancellor; how London may say goodbye to the Westminster System; and what it all means for NATO
What do war games reveal about Europe’s security future?
What can a war game tell us about a real-world security crisis?
In this episode of Berlin Briefing, DW’s Nina Haase speaks with Carolina Drüten, International Security Correspondent at WELT and creator of the podcast Ernstfall, based on a public war game simulating a Russian challenge to NATO's eastern flank and Roman Goncharenko, DW Eastern Europe Security Analyst and Correspondent.
Boost or bust the AfD? Inside Friedrich Merz’ gamble to reform Germany
Can German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stop the rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany? Germany's coalition government has launched sweeping reforms on the economy, pensions and welfare. In this episode of Berlin Briefing, DW’s Michaela Küfner and Matthew Moore examine with economist Marcel Fratzscher whether Germany's reform gamble can reverse the far-right populist surge.
250 Years of USA: Where Germany needs to pivot now
As the United States marks 250 years of independence, Germany is confronting an uncomfortable question: can it still rely on its most important ally?
Former German ambassador to Washington Emily Haber joins DW's Nina Haase to discuss the future of transatlantic relations and how Europe may have to forge new alliances and capabilities on its own.
NATO under pressure: Can Germany be the European leader?
In this Berlin Briefing special from the Global Media Forum, DW’s Nina Haase and Max Hofmann are joined by NATO expert Gerlinde Niehus and Maximilian Mayer from the University of Bonn to discuss: where does Germany hold real leverage and how can it help Europe become a strategic power?
Rewriting the past? Inside the AfD's history agenda
Berlin Briefing looks at how Germany remembers the Holocaust and why it's being targeted by the far-right AfD. Björn Höcke rejects German collective guilt, blaming only the Nazi dictatorship. With Melanie Amann, author of "Fear for Germany: The truth about the AfD" and social scientist Jakob Schergaut, host Michaela Küfner examines the controversy and the AfD’s push to reshape history.
World Cup 2026: Can Germany’s football team save the government?
As the World Cup kicks off, pundits in Germany are asking: Could success on the pitch help the coalition bounce back?
In Berlin Briefing, host Max Hofmann discusses with DW’s Chief Political Editor Michaela Küfner, sports and politics expert Florian Bauer, and DW sports reporter Jonathan Harding whether this is the most political World Cup yet — and whether ‘die Mannschaft’ could lift the mood.
Inside Germany's big UN defeat
Germany just suffered one of its biggest diplomatic setbacks in decades: losing a UN Security Council seat it thought was practically guaranteed. In this episode of Berlin Briefing, host Nina Haase and her guests, DW's Max Hofmann and UN expert Myriel Marthez, take you inside the vote, inside the backroom diplomacy, and inside the reasons Germany’s campaign collapsed.
Will Germany stand up to the big tech bros?
Berlin Briefing host Michaela Küfner unpacks the Pope's call for responsible AI regulation and asks what Germany’s plans are to avoid a sell-out to big tech interests. She is joined by tech regulation expert Matthias Kettemann from the Leibniz Institute for Media Research and DW's tech policy correspondent Maximiliane Koschyk.
What the AfD would do in power
The AfD is surging in the polls - in some regions, it's way out in front of Germany’s traditional parties. But despite record support, the far-right party still has almost no real executive power. Why is that? And could that soon change?
In this episode host Max Hofmann discusses with DW’s Matthew Moore and author/historian Katja Hoyer what would happen if the AfD won a state outright.
Putin’s Contradictions: Attack Ukraine, Talk Deals, Propose Schröder
As Russia launches a fresh wave of attacks across Ukraine and the Kremlin signals it could pursue economic deals with the United States — under certain conditions — Vladimir Putin is also floating a controversial idea: former German chancellor Gerhard Schröder as a mediator for Europe. In this episode, host Nina Haase discusses the Russian president’s controversial suggestion with her guests.
US reduces troops in Germany: Is Donald Trump breaking up with Friedrich Merz?!
Is the relationship between German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and US President Donald Trump on the rocks?!. Is the exchange of political fire that saw Merz describe the US as “humiliated” by Iran – and Trump respond with troop withdrawals and tariffs – just a blip? Hosts Nina Haase and Michaela Küfner welcome DW’s Washington Bureau Chief Ines Pohl to analyse Trump’s latest blows against Germany.
Did Merz push Trump too far on Iran?
A blunt remark by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has triggered a sharp response from US President Donald Trump — and reopened questions about the state of transatlantic relations. After Merz publicly criticized Washington’s handling of Iran, saying the US s being “humiliated” by Iran’s leadership, Trump hinted at reviewing the US troop presence in Germany, raising security and diplomatic stakes.
Why is Chancellor Merz so unpopular — and is it fair?
Germany’s chancellor tops the wrong rankings: approval is at a record low and the AfD has overtaken the CDU/CSU in some polls. But do polls really capture Friedrich Merz’s performance? In this episode, DW Berlin Bureau chief Maximilian Hofmann speaks with DW Chief Political Editor Michaela Küfner, Dr. Roland Abold from polling institute infratest dimap and Berlin-based French journalist Luc André.
Ukraine support: how and why is Germany different?
Germany and Ukraine have declared a new strategic partnership - but how much substance is behind the signal? In this episode, host Michaela Küfner discusses with her guests Gerlinde Niehus, a NATO expert and DW’s Nina Haase and Nick Connolly whether Ukraine is shifting from aid recipient to security provider - and what that means for Europe’s defense strategy amid competing global crises.
Hungary's election: Is Berlin betting against Orbán?
Hungary is heading into one of its most consequential elections in years - and all of Europe is watching closely. Officially, Berlin says it remains neutral. Unofficially, the stakes could hardly be higher. In this episode of Berlin Briefing, host Max Hofmann breaks down the key issues shaping Hungary’s upcoming election with Dora Diseri from DW’s Hungarian Service and EU expert Kai-Olaf Lang.
How the Iran war is forcing Germany to rethink energy
The energy shock from the Iran war is felt around the world, and in Germany, too. As rising prices hit consumers, the government is struggling to find a response. How should Europe's largest economy fuel itself in a world where fossils can become a political liability?
Host Nina Haase goes looking for answers with Greens MP Robin Wagener, DGAP energy expert Loyle Campbell and DW’s Bernd Riegert.
Can Germany reform its way out of the rise of the far right AfD?
Germany’s governing parties in Chancellor Merz’s coalition have just faced a moment of truth. The need for drastic reforms is hitting home in the Social Democratic Party (SPD), which suffered another electoral blow this week. Host Michaela Küfner discusses with DW’s Max Hofmann, Matthew Moore, and expert Marcel Fratzscher the current economic struggles the governing parties are facing.
Disagreements over Iran - are the US and Germany still friends?
As Washington pressures Europe over the Iran war, Germany is stuck between needing US support for Ukraine and not participating in the war in Iran. How has Berlin’s position evolved since the US and Israel launched their strikes? Host Max Hofmann speaks with Sudha David-Wilp (GMF), DW’s Michaela Küfner and Teri Schultz about the new relationship status of the US and Germany.
Under pressure: Can Merz steer Germany through 2026?
Germany enters a defining political year as five regional elections could shift power amid energy tensions. The Greens surge in Baden‑Württemberg with Cem Özdemir, while the SPD’s slump raises reform doubts.
Principle vs power: Merz, Trump & the Iran war
After the strikes on Iran, Europe is split and Germany must balance allies, international law, and growing instability. In Washington, Friedrich Merz confronts an unpredictable political climate and shifting power dynamics. Host Nina Haase discusses the aftermath of Merz’s DC visit with DW’s chief political editor Michaela Küfner and DW’s Washington bureau chief Ines Pohl.
What the Iran war means for the Middle East and beyond
As the fight against the Iranian regime hits European Union territory, host Michaela Küfner unpacks the latest strikes, Iran’s internal turmoil, and how this latest escalation pushes German Chancellor Merz to put the necessity to stand by his allies, the US and Israel, above international law. DW’s Richard Walker and Niloofar Gholami offer their perspectives on this history in the making.
How the tables are turning between Germany and China
Germany is bracing for the impact of a massive ‘China shock’ as trade imbalances and supply-chain risks threaten its economy. On his first Beijing visit as chancellor, Friedrich Merz urges China to act — but does he have leverage? And how firm is his derisking push, given resistance from German business? Richard Walker breaks it down with Michaela Küfner and Thorsten Benner (GPPi).
What Peter Thiel has to do with Germany’s drones
Germany is racing to catch up in modern warfare. As the Bundeswehr prepares to buy combat drones, one name is causing political turbulence: Peter Thiel. How much influence does the controversial investor really have — and should lawmakers approve the deal?
Host Nina Haase breaks it all down with Christopher F. Schuetze (The New York Times), Emil Archambault (DGAP), and Roman Goncharenko (DW).
Can Europe and MAGA coexist? | Live from MSC 2026
Did US Secretary of State Marco Rubio just send Europe a political Valentine's card? And are Europeans ready to rebuild trust in their longtime partner? How do Germany and its European allies wield their leverage in a multipolar world?
Live at the MSC 2026, Michaela Küfner and Nina Haase dissect the Merz government’s approach with CDU/CSU Chief Whip Jens Spahn and the Eurasia Group’s Ian Bremmer.
Beyond the big powers: Germany aims to diversify
Where is Germany really heading as it scrambles to diversify its foreign‑policy partnerships? In this Berlin Briefing, Nina Haase talks to Jakob Hensing (GPPi) about Germany’s evolving role in a tense, multipolar world. Richard Walker and Michaela Küfner join in to share rare first‑hand insights from traveling with German officials on diplomatic missions to the Indo‑Pacific and the Gulf.
Auschwitz: lessons for today's America + Germany
In this Holocaust Remembrance Day episode, Berlin Briefing explores rising hate crimes in Germany and the US, the politicization of antisemitism, and the broader dangers of state power targeting vulnerable communities.
Facing the future: Germany’s struggle with nuclear reliance on the US
Germany is famously "under the US’ nuclear umbrella"-creating a dependency that some are now calling risky. What exactly does that mean? How would US help protect Germany in a worst-case scenario? What options does Germany have to move toward a European umbrella?
Host Nina Haase talks with her guests about Germany’s deep dependencies on the US -from NATO cooperation to nuclear deterrence.
Germany is running out of allies — Can India help?
With Germany and India both shaken by Trump 2.0, they’re now trying to deepen ties from business to defense – with Friedrich Merz greeted to much fanfare by Narendra Modi in the Indian Prime Minister’s home city. But is this for real, or are the good vibes just for show? Find out in this edition of Berlin Briefing with Richard Walker, Biresh Banerjee, Michaela Küfner, and Sandra Petersmann.
When diplomacy meets reality: Germany's balancing act with Trump’s America
Headlines coming out of the US shook the world in the first week of 2026: the military operation in Venezuela and Trump's talk of seizing Greenland. DW Berlin Briefing host Nina Haase and her guests, Michaela Küfner (DW) and Thorsten Benner (Global Public Policy Institute) discuss whether Germany's relative silence is strategic restraint or helplessness in the face of US assertiveness.
Why 2026 could be a milestone for Germany's AfD
2025 was the most successful year yet for Germany's AfD, or Alternative for Germany. It came second in national elections and recently topped some opinion polls. Now in 2026, the party could win power in state elections for the first time. In this Berlin Briefing, Richard Walker and Matthew Moore analyze what could be another year of breakthroughs with Kate Brady of the Washington Post.
Why Germany finds it so hard to handle China
2025 exposed Germany's dependence on China, as a source of rare earths and a market and production site for its industry. Berlin says it wants to "de-risk" the relationship. But is it serious? Or is it in too deep? Richard Walker sat down with experts Noah Barkin and Clifford Coonan to analyze Germany's options.
Germany's high-stakes EU gamble over Russia
Germany’s chancellor demanded a breakthrough. The EU summit delivered mixed results: Ukraine funding secured, Mercosur delayed. Is Friedrich Merz cementing Germany’s leadership—or exposing Europe to unnecessary risks? Berlin Briefing host Nina Haase, DW Chief Political Editor Michaela Küfner and Daniel Goffart (WirtschaftsWoche) unpack the stakes, the style, and what this means for 2026.
Ukraine, US, and Europe: The race for a truce before Christmas
Could it really happen? Why you shouldn’t hold your breath for a quick ceasefire in Ukraine:
In this episode of Berlin Briefing, host Michaela Küfner discusses the current flurry of diplomacy between Washington, Berlin, Kyiv, and Moscow over Trump’s revised plan for Ukraine, and what the new US security strategy means for Europeans and the future of the transatlantic partnership.
Why Germany’s far-right AfD just founded a new youth wing
The far-right AfD has launched ‘Generation Germany,’ a new youth wing aiming to groom future party leaders. In this Berlin Briefing episode, host Nina Haase and journalists Matthew Moore and Hans Pfeifer unpack its founding, the protests, ties to extremist networks, and what it means for Germany’s political landscape.
A rift in the alliance? Trump’s Ukraine peace plan and Germany's response
"Russia’s wish list"- that’s how many in Washington and Berlin labelled Washington’s initial 28-point plan toward peace in Ukraine, when it first became public. DW’s Nina Haase and Michaela Küfner discuss with Dominik Tolksdorf (DGAP) how a total sell-out of Europe was prevented, and how deep this latest crack in US-German relations now runs in the transatlantic alliance.
DW interview with German chancellor Friedrich Merz
As negotiations over a 28-point plan for Ukraine intensify, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warns of a "deep threat" to Europe’s security architecture. Merz outlines Europe’s leverage, Africa’s growing role in global politics, and speaks about his hopes that China could push Russia toward ending the war.
Young Vs Old? How a fight over pensions is shaking the German government
18 young conservative MPs have rebelled against the pension reform - threatening the coalition between conservatives and social democrats. Is this Friedrich Merz’s biggest stability test yet? DW’s Michaela Küfner, Nina Haase and Steven Beardsley break down the demographics, the economics, and the political drama behind Germany’s pension showdown.
Conscription comeback: Will Germany find 80.000 new soldiers?
It’s a deal: Germany’s coalition has agreed to restart military conscription from January 2026. DW's Berlin Briefing hosts Michaela Küfner and Nina Haase speak to Marcel Bohnert, deputy head of the Bundeswehr Association and Quentin Gärtner from Germany’s school pupils' association about the new model that will make it compulsory for 18-year-old men to undergo an armed forces physical test.
Back to Syria? Germany's conservatives face off on deportation plans
Germany’s conservatives are in turmoil after Foreign Minister Wadephul’s visit to Syria. His remarks about the country’s dire living conditions — and the unlikelihood of large-scale returns — have sparked backlash within his own party. Is the push for repatriation grounded in reality — or is it just political theater? Nina Haase breaks it down with Daniel Thym, Aya Ibrahim, and Michaela Küfner.
Is Europe united against Russia’s provocations? Race against time
What does it take to get Europe defense-ready — and how soon must it act?
In this Berlin Briefing from the Berlin Global Dialogue, DW’s Michaela Küfner speaks with EU Commissioner for Defense Andrius Kubilius and DW’s Alexandra von Nahmen about Europe’s response to Russian provocations, the urgency of military preparedness, and whether EU member states are truly united in facing the threat.
Global power shift: Trump, Xi and the end of rules-based order?
Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz just said that the world is witnessing 'the provisional end of a rules-based multilateral order.' So, is Germany abandoning its role as a champion of international law? DW’s Chief Political Editor Michaela Küfner breaks down the global power shift with Thorsten Benner, Director of the Global Public Policy Institute, and Ines Pohl, DW Washington Bureau Chief.
"Will Germany Get Its Own James Bond?"
Monday saw a dramatic public hearing where the heads of Germany's top intelligence agencies warned: "We're already in the fire." Facing sabotage, hybrid warfare, and Russian espionage, they're asking for more powers and fewer controls—and hinting at a shift toward offensive tactics.
AfD meets MAGA: What's behind the far-right alliance?
Germany's AfD is knocking on Washington's door—and Trump's team is answering. Over the last few months, AfD politicians have met with US officials, including Vice President JD Vance, and received open support from Trump allies during Germany's election. In this episode, we ask: Why is the AfD seeking US backing? Where do the AfD and the MAGA movement align—and where do they clash?
Is NATO doing Enough? Breaking down Russia’s latest tests against the West
What’s behind Russia’s latest provocations against the West? What should NATO’s strategy be? In this special episode of Berlin Briefing at the Warsaw Security Forum, DW’s Nina Haase and Richard Walker speak with Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur and Michael Carpenter, Senior Fellow at the IISS, about NATO’s dilemma towards Russia.
Why Germany won't recognize Palestine (yet)
157 UN member states have recognized Palestine as a state. Not Germany. Or not yet? The German government says it supports a two-state solution, but it insists that recognition must come at the end of a peace process—not before. So what's standing in the way? To unpack Germany’s delicate balancing act, host Nina Haase is joined by DW’s Sarah Hofmann, Aya Ibrahim and Michaela Küfner.
Why Germany needs to reform its social security system
Germany’s social security system is under pressure - from rising costs, an aging population, and political deadlock. In this episode, DW’s Michaela Küfner discusses with Prof. Nicola Fuchs-Schündeln (WZB), and DW’s Matthew Moore - whether Germany can still afford its welfare state in the long term and whether Friedrich Merz’s coalition will agree on meaningful reforms.
Will Europe stand up to Putin's latest provocation?
A “serious threat to peace” – that’s how Poland sees Russia’s largest drone incursion into its air space so far. German Chancellor Merz agrees. But what will NATO, what will the EU do in response? DW's political quartet including host Michaela Küfner, Nina Haase, Roman Goncharenko and Teri Schultz explore what options NATO and Europe now have.
The Trump effect: Why Germany and India are getting closer
India and Germany have been hit hard by Trump – with India blasted by super-high tariffs and Germany bending over backwards to keep Trump happy. For both countries, closer relations with each other could be part of the answer. Could Berlin and Delhi finally make this happen? Or will Russia or Pakistan get in the way? Richard Walker, Biresh Banerjee and Sandra Petersmann discuss in this edition.
Is Germany changing its strategic thinking? New security council explained
The German government, facing rising tensions from Russia, China, Iran, and other actors, has approved a National Security Council (NSC) under Chancellor Merz’s new strategy to streamline security policy and crisis decisions. In this Berlin Briefing episode, DW’s Nina Haase discusses the NSC’s role with Marcus Pindur (German public radio) and Sarah Bressan (GPPi).
Why Europe shouldn’t get too excited over Trump’s peace drive
In this episode, Trump’s former National Security Advisor John Bolton tells DW’s top correspondents Michaela Küfner and Nina Haase why the question of security guarantees for Ukraine is as urgent as it is spooky for Germany and Europe. This episode was recorded on August 21, less than 24 hours before FBI agents searched John Bolton's Maryland home.
The Merz era: What has he achieved? Where is he failing?
Germany’s new government came in 100 days ago pledging to master the biggest challenges facing the country: a stagnant economy, weak defense, and deep divisions over immigration. Above all, it promised to end the infighting that blew up the previous government. So is it working? In this episode, Richard Walker, Michaela Küfner, and Stephan Detjen break down the start of the Merz era.
Is mandatory military service on its way back in Germany?
The German government says it aims to build up Europe’s strongest conventional army, but is facing a shortage of personnel. Conscription was suspended in 2011 and now plans to bring it back in are on the table. Who's going to be affected? Will women serve? And amid rising tensions with Russia, how prepared is Germany? DW’s Nina Haase talks to Michaela Küfner, Sina Schweikle, and David Matei.
EU-US trade deal: Disaster for the German economy?
In Germany there’s massive criticism of the new US-EU trade agreement, with opponents saying it’s deeply unfair. If that’s true, why did Europe sign it? Can German carmakers cope with high US tariffs as well as mounting competition from China? In this episode of Berlin Briefing, Richard Walker explores with Marie Sina from DW’s business desk and think tanker Thorsten Benner from the GPPi.
How the far-right AfD fuelled a campaign of division
The deliberate spread of false information just handed the far right a big win. The vote on a new set of constitutional court judges was postponed. One candidate has been left damaged. We speak to Philipp Sälhoff, who heads a think tank that showed how a post by the far-right AfD party went on to fuel a campaign of disinformation and how this has become a wake-up call for German policy makers.
How a routine vote blew up German politics
Germany’s coalition is grappling with its first crisis, with infighting over the nomination of a new judge to its highest court that has exploded with culture war themes ranging from abortion to COVID and the AfD. In this edition of Berlin Briefing, DW’s Richard Walker, Nina Haase and Michaela Küfner are joined by law professor Markus Kotzur to break down the political and legal implications.
'Helping Ukraine defeat Russia is doable' - Estonia's prepared, not scared
There are fresh doubts about whether the US President and Europe are on the same page on Ukraine. Why is Europe not using frozen Russian assets? And how worried are the Baltic states that they might become Putin’s next targets? In this episode, DW’s Nina Haase explores these questions with Estonian diplomat Jonatan Vseviov, defense expert Christian Mölling, and DW Russian's Roman Goncharenko.
Why is Poland introducing controls on its border with Germany?
Poland will impose temporary border checks with Germany in response to Chancellor Friedrich Merz's tougher migration stance, which has led Germany to conduct regular border checks. Germany is now countering criticism from neighboring countries. Journalist David McQuaid joins DW’s political team to discuss the political tensions, motivations, risks, and implications for European unity.
What Trump’s power over Europe really means
In a historic week for Europe, the NATO alliance agreed to a major defense spending boost - raising the goal to 5% of GDP. Meanwhile, Secretary General Rutte called Trump ‘Daddy.’ In this episode of Berlin Briefing, DW’s team breaks down NATO’s summit in The Hague, explores Trump’s influence over Europe, and examines how European leaders’ attitudes shifted during his first and second terms.
Bolton: Iran could become Trump's next TACO moment
US President Trump's former national security advisor John Bolton checked in with Berlin Briefing's hosts. Bolton explained why he doesn't believe Trump will send the bunker-busting bomb to Iran. Pushed for a character assessment, Bolton questioned whether Trump had even made up his mind on what he will do next – on Iran and NATO.
How ready are Germans to defend Europe?
Half of Germans back Chancellor Merz's pledge to spend 5% of GDP on defense. And the other half?! And how comfortable are Germany's European partners with the new German leadership style that includes sweeping commitments to arm up? DW's top correspondents Michaela Küfner and Nina Haase in Berlin and Alexandra von Nahmen at NATO HQ in Brussels analyze what Merz' pledges will mean in real terms.
Why Germans are relieved after Merz’s Oval Office debut
Friedrich Merz was bracing for a bust-up on his first visit to the Oval Office since becoming German chancellor. But the first Merz-Trump meeting turned out to be harmonious. Why? In this edition of Berlin Briefing, Michaela Küfner in Washington and Nina Haase and Richard Walker in Berlin look for answers. And ask whether a first good meeting counts for much in this unpredictable new era.
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