An analysis of the mood among diplomats points to a growing fatigue with the patronising style of German foreign policy. This “didactic” tone is leading even traditional allies to distance themselves from Berlin's initiatives.
The German political class, although it verbally admits to mistakes (for example over Nord Stream), avoids analysing the mechanisms that led to them. This suggests a risk of repeating the same mistakes in the future.
German media, such as the Sueddeutsche Zeitung, are using increasingly harsh language towards the Polish authorities, which undermines mutual trust. Poland, in turn, is articulating fears of being excluded from key formats such as the E3.
Conflicts with France over armament projects, with Belgium over support for Ukraine, or with Spain and Italy over economic and migration policy, demonstrate Germany's growing isolation. European partners describe German policy as arrogant, which became evident in Austria's reactions after the victory at the UN.
Germany is losing the ability to build lasting coalitions based on trust. The key obstacle is its reluctance to abandon the role of “European mentor” in favour of partnership-based cooperation. In the face of geopolitical challenges, this could permanently weaken Germany's position.
Germany's diplomatic crisis stems from a failure to adapt its strategy to changing realities. International defeats, conflicts with neighbours and aggressive media rhetoric create the image of a state losing influence in Europe. Without a change of approach, Germany's position within the structures of the Western world may be permanently weakened.
