DW Berlin Briefing - Inside German politics

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.

John Bolton, former national security advisor to Trump and known for his strong stances on military power, discusses the complexities of Trump's approach to Iran. He doubts Trump's willingness to take drastic military action while questioning his decision-making on NATO. Bolton also navigates the geopolitical implications of the escalating Israel-Iran tensions and the fragility of arms control agreements. His insights reflect the challenging landscape of international relations and the shifting dynamics within U.S. foreign policy.

Alexandra von Nahmen, DW's NATO correspondent based in Brussels, investigates Germany's evolving defense posture in the wake of Russia's actions. The discussion highlights Chancellor Merz's controversial pledge to raise defense spending to 5% of GDP and how this sparks mixed reactions domestically and among European partners. The conversation dives into Germany's recruitment crisis and the tension between historical pacifism and current military pressures. Ultimately, it reveals the complexities of Germany's role within NATO and the broader implications for European security.

Friedrich Merz's first meeting with Trump in the Oval Office was surprisingly harmonious, marking a hopeful moment for German-American relations. The discussion touched on trade agreements, historical ties, and the ongoing Ukraine conflict. With no tough questions directed at Merz, the encounter seemed to reflect a shift in German politics and popular opinion. The podcast also examines the impact of U.S. foreign policy on Europe and navigates the intricate dynamics between the two nations in a time of uncertainty.

When Germany's Chancellor speaks out on international law violations by Israel, it signals a shift. We explore Germany’s evolving stance on Israel, and how Staatsräson shapes the line between political criticism and accusations of antisemitism. Plus, what Merz’s backing of Ukraine’s missile program says about his global ambitions — and how he aims to engage Trump on Europe.

How did Germany’s newly elected chancellor debut as a peacemaker in Europe after his visit to Kyiv alongside fellow European leaders? Can he lead while caught between the U.S. and Russian presidents? DW’s Chief Political Editor Michaela Küfner discusses Merz’s first steps as Germany’s new chancellor on the European stage with Andreas Rinke from Reuters and Aylin Matlé from DGAP.

While the far-right AfD has seized global attention, the far left of German politics is also making gains. The Left Party was the #1 choice for first-time voters in the recent elections. Why are so many young voters drawn to its socialist agenda? DW’s Richard Walker unpacks the Left Party and its growing influence with Matthew Moore and Bernd Riegert from the DW politics team.

In this discussion, Johannes Winkel, leader of the CDU's Junge Union Youth Organization, shares insights on the new political landscape in Germany. He advises Friedrich Merz on engaging the younger generation within the party. The conversation highlights surprising cabinet appointments, particularly Foreign Minister Johann Waderfuhr and Economy Minister Katharina Reiche. Winkel also addresses demographic shifts impacting political representation, emphasizing the need for youth voices amid rising far-right sentiment and the challenges of supporting Ukraine.

Is Crimea the key to peace in Ukraine? On today’s episode, we break down Donald Trump’s claim that President Zelenskyy is prolonging the war by resisting calls to cede the Ukrainian peninsula Crimea to Russia. Our guests have updates on a devastating attack in Kyiv and on Friedrich Merz' controversial Taurus missile hint.

Germany’s incoming government will face a geopolitical nightmare from Day 1. Stuck between a hostile White House and a China which threatens Germany’s crucial auto industry. Can likely Chancellor Friedrich Merz handle both at the same time? In this edition of Berlin Briefing, Richard Walker jumps into the Germany-China-US dynamic with Andrew Small of GMF and DW’s Melissa Chan in Taipei.