Can Friedrich Merz demonstrate that he would make a better “Chancellor of Peace” by adopting a tougher stance toward Russia? This question remains unanswered, but Merz is set to soon reveal more about his approach as a security policymaker. His upcoming visit to Kyiv at the invitation of Volodymyr Zelenskyy will serve as a key moment to showcase the message he wants to send as the CDU/CSU’s candidate for chancellor. Gordon Repinski discusses this visit and its implications with POLITICO’s diplomacy expert, Hans von der Burchard.
The topic of Merz’s strategy, the Taurus missiles, and how the Ukraine conflict has become a central theme in Germany’s election campaign is also explored during a 200-second interview with Johann Wadephul, an experienced foreign and security policymaker.
Additionally, POLITICO reporter Rixa Fürsen provides a comprehensive update on developments in Syria and analyzes their significance for the EU and Russia.
In other news, the Bundestag’s police officers could soon receive expanded powers codified into law, further solidifying their authority.
Don’t miss the Berlin Playbook Podcast, available every morning at 5 a.m. Gordon Repinski and the POLITICO team deliver a concise, European-focused, and in-depth recap of the day’s key political developments.
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