Good afternoon! If the prophet doesn't come to the mountain, the mountain must come to the prophet. Or to put it another way: When the Bundestag is in recess, I visit the politicians in their home countries. The result: this week's Playbook Podcast .
SUMMER SPECIAL
THE CONTROVERSIAL: Hardly anyone chinese overseas british database is currently as polarizing as Rolf Mützenich. I met the parliamentary group leader in Cologne for a walk along the Rhine and discussed all the hot topics: Ukraine, his collaboration with Christian Lindner—and his future.
In search of peace: "I don't want to completely rule out territorial compromises by Ukraine," says Mützenich. We also need to sit down and negotiate with Russia. He used to be insulted for such statements; today, "I actually feel more vindicated in my position."
The best of feelings: This is how one could interpret his wishes for Christian Lindner. "I'm happy for him to have a vacation now. Maybe that will help him calm down a bit." Mützenich still resents his behavior regarding the budget. He mediated between the coalition partners "almost to the point of self-denial" – and yet Lindner still perceives him as an "enemy."
Does Mützenich want to continue in 2025? The 65-year-old is keen, but also has doubts about his age. He plans to make a decision in the coming weeks. In our conversation, he reveals to me what he will definitely not do if he retires from politics.
You can listen to our entire podcast walk here .
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