Olaf Scholz’s ultra-low-key style makes him look to some as if he is shying from power, just when Germany needs most to exercise it
Save time by listening to our audio articles as you multitaskThe former Hamburg mayor may have been elected last September precisely because his modesty echoes that of his famously taciturn predecessor, Angela Merkel. But Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has thrust Mr Scholz into a tougher predicament in his first few months than the former chancellor faced during 16 years. His ultra-low-key style makes him look to some as if he is shying from power, just when Germany needs most to exercise it.
It does not help that members of Mr Scholz’s inner circle, let alone his coalition government, have often conveyed contradictory messages. Jens Plötner, the chancellor’s top foreign-policy adviser, recently raised eyebrows by questioning the “feverishness” of the debate over sending arms to Ukraine, when more thought should be given to future relations with Russia. Such slips have often forced Mr Scholz to repeat and restate what look like wobbly policies.
But although polls show the chancellor losing popularity compared with more forthright coalition partners such as Annalena Baerbock, the foreign minister, Germans seem to be forgiving; even some of his critics commended his handling of the7 talks. “Mr Scholz may not be the greatest storyteller,” admitted Joe Kaeser, a former boss of Siemens, in a recent interview. “But the chancellor is matter-of-fact, level-headed and tries to de-escalate, which is a gift these days.
This article appeared in the Europe section of the print edition under the headline"The quiet German"
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Zara is taking its homeware to the next level with the launch of ZaraHome+The Spanish retailer has teamed up with Belgian designer Vincent Van Duysen for the ongoing collaboration, with the first drop launching June 30.
Read more »
Temuri Ketsbaia takes new job in football managementCyprus have appointed Temuri Ketsbaia as the new boss of their national side.
Read more »
Brooklyn Beckham's wife Nicola Peltz brought to tears in first update from romantic honeymoonBrooklyn Beckham took to social media with a romantic honeymoon update after having to delay celebrations with new wife Nicola Peltz. See video.
Read more »
Fuel thefts soar 61% as forecourt prices continue to rocketDrive-off incidents hit record levels as pump prices rise despite drop in cost for retailers
Read more »
'Keir Starmer will be seen as the saviour of the Labour Party', says Alan JohnsonA former Shadow Chancellor has said Keir Starmer could be remembered in history as being 'the saviour of Labour' as he rejected the idea the party leader 'lacked charisma'.
Read more »
Stendhal: Thousands expected for music and arts festivalStendhal Festival, which was scaled back in 2021, is expecting numbers to be at pre-pandemic levels.
Read more »