Angela Merkel25 Nov 2024Angela Merkel defends ties with Russia and blocking Ukraine from NatoThe former German chancellor, who quit politics three years ago, speaks to the BBC in a rare interview. 25 Nov 2024Europe29 Dec 2023From Rushdie to RuPaul: The books to read in 2024Britney, Stephen King and Chigozie Obioma also have new books coming out in the next 12 months.29 Dec 2023Entertainment & Arts27 Dec 2023Merkel's no-nonsense finance minister Schäuble diesAlthough never chancellor, Wolfgang Schäuble was one of Germany's most influential politicians.27 Dec 2023Europe25 Nov 2022Merkel says she lacked power to influence PutinThe German ex-chancellor says she could not block Russia's designs on Ukraine in 2021.25 Nov 2022Europe4 Nov 2022Scholz asks China to press Russia to end its warThe German leader uses a controversial trip to urge Beijing to persuade Russia to halt its invasion.4 Nov 2022Europe7 Jun 2022Angela Merkel defends her record on PutinHer approach has been criticised but she said she had "nothing to apologise for".7 Jun 2022Europe11 Dec 2021Watch: Ros Atkins on… Compulsory Covid vaccinationsRos Atkins examines the ethical arguments surrounding vaccine mandates.11 Dec 2021Health8 Dec 2021Scholz becomes German leader as Merkel bows outOlaf Scholz is sworn in as chancellor, leading a three-party coalition after 16 years of Merkel rule.8 Dec 2021Europe8 Dec 2021Olaf Scholz: Who is Germany's new chancellor?The centre-left leader was vice-chancellor and succeeds Angela Merkel after securing a coalition deal.8 Dec 2021Europe