The challenge for Berlin in 2017
Berlin will need to manage the fears of its fellow members, especially in regard to three specific issues
Note to Berlin
Russia sanctions and magical thinking
Sanctions are clearly not an end in themselves. They are a tool and as such should be responsive to ensure maximum leverage. But this flexibility should not come at the cost of credibility.
Make Libya a priority
Germany has a lot to lose if the situation in Libya turns sour, but a lot to gain if diplomacy is given the support to succeed
Note to Berlin: How to engage Poland
If Germany wants to avoid further deterioration of its relationship with Poland, it is important to make clear that a discussion of the rule of law in their country is not a German-Polish affair and an illegitimate meddling in Polish affairs, but a legitimate part of a European public debate