Episode 75: What Germany’s Solution to its Tank Dilemma Tells Us about the Zeitenwende?

On this episode of the Zeitgeist, AICGS President Jeff Rathke talks with Dr. Liana Fix, Fellow for Europe at the Council on Foreign Relations, to discuss ongoing challenges in Germany’s foreign policy as Olaf Scholz pursues the Zeitenwende – the reorientation of Berlin’s security agenda. Amidst intense public debates over the shipment of Leopard 2 main battle tanks to Ukraine, how does Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s leadership reflect Germany’s attitudes towards European security? What signals is Scholz sending with regard to the future of European security and the transatlantic alliance when he made it a condition that the United States also send Abrams tanks to Kyiv? What challenges does Germany’s new Defense Minister Boris Pistorious face, and what are his near-term goals? Berlin has gotten over the hump of announcing tank deliveries to Ukraine, but how could Germany’s caution affect its relationships in Europe and the long-term viability of the Zeitenwende? Host Jeff Rathke, President, AICGS Guests Liana Fix, Fellow for Europe, Council on Foreign Relations