Reflecting on a Tumultuous Political Year in 2025
As the year 2025 comes to a close, the political landscape has experienced significant upheaval. From the early elections in February to the suspenseful moments surrounding Friedrich Merz’s chancellorship and the new government’s initial foreign trips, this special retrospective captures the essence of the year. The POLITICO team shares insights and anecdotes that defined these pivotal events.
Memorable Moments from the Year
Rixa Fürsen, Pauline von Pezold, Gordon Repinski, Hans von der Burchard, and Rasmus Buchsteiner reflect on election night festivities, the tense hours leading to the chancellor’s swearing-in, and a nearly chaotic first trip to Kyiv that almost unraveled due to a taxi mishap. They also discuss the quirky office tradition of the ‘Floskel-Schwein’—a playful nod to their espresso machine—and reveal why Hans often records podcasts while standing on chilly train platforms.
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The Berlin Playbook delivers insightful political analysis each morning at 5 AM. Gordon Repinski and his team provide a compact yet comprehensive overview that is both international in scope and rich in context.
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Conclusion
The year 2025 has been marked by political drama and unexpected moments that have shaped Germany’s landscape. As we look back, it’s clear that the journey is just as important as the destination.
Key Takeaways
- 2025 was filled with dramatic political events including early elections and the chancellor’s tense inauguration.
- The first government trip to Kyiv almost failed due to a taxi issue.
- Fun traditions, like the ‘Floskel-Schwein’, added a unique touch to the POLITICO team’s work culture.
- The daily Berlin Playbook podcast is an essential resource for those wanting concise political insights.