DW Berlin Briefing - Inside German politics

Principle vs power: Merz, Trump & the Iran war

DW Berlin Briefing - Inside German politics

Show Notes

After the strikes on Iran, Europe is split and Germany must balance allies, international law, and growing instability. In Washington, Friedrich Merz confronts an unpredictable political climate and shifting power dynamics. Host Nina Haase discusses the aftermath of Merz’s DC visit with DW’s chief political editor Michaela Küfner and DW’s Washington bureau chief Ines Pohl.

More from DW Berlin Briefing - Inside German politics

Oct 22, 2026

Europe wants growth, innovation and strategic autonomy. But can it become more competitive without becoming more dependent on the US? Max Hofmann speaks with Cecilia Malmström and Kai Steinecke on Berlin Briefing.

Oct 19, 2026

At the Warsaw Security Forum, Nina Haase spoke with the ex-Estonian defense chief about Germany’s recent spy scandal and Russia. The bigger question: How can intelligence shared with another country be protected?

Oct 14, 2026

From the Warsaw Security Forum, Nina Haase and Alexandra von Nahmen speak with Robert Habeck on Russia, the Arctic’s strategic role and democratic resilience.

Oct 7, 2026

As Germany's former spy chief is accused of selling state secrets, Berlin Briefing looks at the allegations, the fallout for the BND intelligence agency & the wider impact of Germany's biggest espionage scandal in years.

Oct 2, 2026

Friedrich Merz says support for Ukraine is a matter of national interest. This week's Berlin Briefing asks whether a far-right AfD surge and Russia's return to the negotiating table spell trouble.

See all episodes →