Is Germany Going to Take on a Greater Defence Role?

In late February, German chancellor Olaf Scholz described Russia's invasion of Ukraine as a ‘Zeitenwende’ - turning point - sparking the biggest shift in German foreign policy since the Cold War.

The highlights included a 100bn euro package to boost the military and meet Nato’s 2 per cent of GDP defence spending obligation, send weapons to Ukraine and end his country’s dependency on Russian energy.

A surprisingly bold plan from a man many had thought was - like many of his predecessors - naturally cautious. He drew applause at home and abroad, but two months on there is sense that Scholz is wavering.

Can he, and will he, see his plan through?

Joining David Aaronovitch in the briefing room are:

Sir Paul Lever, former British Ambassador to Germany and author of Berlin Rules: Europe and the German Way

Professor Markus Ziener, Helmut Schmidt Fellow at the German Marshall Fund of the United States

Daniela Schwarzer, Director of the German Council on Foreign Relations

Sophia Besch, senior research fellow at the Centre for European Reform

Producers: Octavia Woodward, Kirsteen Knight and Ben Carter Production Co-ordinators: Siobhan Reed and Sophie Hill Studio Manager: James Beard Editor: Richard Vadon