In 2025, Sönke Neitzel spoke of the "last summer of peace"; today he is more optimistic. However, the military historian warns: Without more financial aid for Ukraine and a clear European strategy from Merz, Macron, and others, the situation remains dangerous due to Russia.

In the SPIEGEL interview with Markus Feldenkirchen, the professor of military history at the University of Potsdam also calls for more soldiers for the German Armed Forces, the swift reintroduction of conscription, and greater European unity in defense policy.

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► Our guest on the talk show:

Prof. Dr. Sönke Neitzel | Military Historian
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► The political talk show "Spitzengespräch" (Top-Level Interview) has been a regular feature of SPIEGEL's video content since 2020. In his program, SPIEGEL editor Markus Feldenkirchen welcomes distinguished guests to discuss current topics in politics, society, and economics.


🎥 The latest episode is also available as a podcast:

🔔 Subscribe to "Top Talk" so you don't miss any future episodes: https://link.spiegel.de/spitzengespraech

💬 Have something to say? Then get in touch and tell us what you think: spitzengespraech.av@spiegel.de

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► Our Team:

Moderator: Markus Feldenkirchen
Editorial Director: Dennis Deuermeier
Editors: Simon Garschhammer, Kim Höbel, Fabius Leibrock, Jan Kunigkeit, Christina Koppenhöfer
Guest Editor: Julia Parker
Director: Sven Christian
Sound/Production: Kim Höbel, Philipp Fackler
Camera: Robert Ackermann, Luis Schubert

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