China, Ukraine challenges test unity of Germany’s ruling coalition
- Months after the Angela Merkel era, Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s governing partners are taking a hardline approach to foreign policy
- Their stance is at odds with a leader whose staid image has been criticised for inaction towards Beijing and Moscow
“Children’s toys are lying on the side of the road, houses are destroyed,” Baerbock said, in dramatic footage from the Donbas region which underscored the Green Party politician’s forceful approach to foreign affairs.
The footage contrasted with the staid image of Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who this week travelled to Russia and Ukraine for talks with the respective leaders. He has been accused of inaction over the unfolding crisis, especially when compared to Baerbock.
“[She] needs those sorts of pictures to keep her own supporters happy. Scholz doesn’t do photo ops,” said an official from the German leader’s Social Democratic Party (SPD).
The deployment of more than 100,000 Russian troops to the Ukrainian border ended any hopes of a honeymoon period for Germany’s new government, a three-party coalition between the SPD, Greens and the Free Democratic Party – just months after the end of Angela Merkel’s 16-year era as chancellor.
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‘We’re scared’: fear and uncertainty on Ukraine’s front lines
“I am not going to deny there is some tension in the coalition,” said one senior Green Party lawmaker. “The Social Democrats are learning there is more to international politics than standing aside. Annalena is bringing a directness and clarity that has been missing in this business for a long time.”
