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Title: Merz, Ukraine, and the U.S. — A Conversation with Wolfgang Ischinger
In the latest episode of POLITICO’s Berlin Playbook podcast, host Gordon Repinski speaks with seasoned diplomat Wolfgang Ischinger about the intricate transatlantic dynamics involving Germany, the United States, and Ukraine. The episode explores what opposition leader Friedrich Merz would need to do to earn the trust of a potential future Trump administration — a crucial question as Europe reconsiders its security footing in light of global uncertainty and ongoing war in Ukraine.
Ischinger, the former head of the Munich Security Conference, offers his insight into how a future German chancellor should approach U.S. relations, especially with the possibility of Donald Trump returning to the White House. He shares strategies on building trust with Washington while maintaining a strong European defense and supporting Ukraine through its war against Russian aggression.
The conversation touches on Germany’s leadership in Europe, evolving EU-U.S. military cooperation, and the broader geopolitical shifts shaping policy decisions in Berlin, Warsaw, and Paris.
The episode is part of the Berlin Playbook podcast series—POLITICO Europe’s insider guide to German politics and policy.
Listen to the full discussion on POLITICO’s website or wherever podcasts are available.
Image: POLITICO’s “Berlin Playbook: Der Podcast” | POLITICO Europe
Original publication date: May 9, 2025
Podcast language: German
Topic tags: Friedrich Merz, Ukraine, Donald Trump, U.S. foreign policy, EU security, Wolfgang Ischinger, German foreign policy
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