How leaked audio embarrassed Germany and put the spotlight on Europe’s ‘war-readiness’

On Monday, Russian media published an audio recording of high-ranking German military officers discussing weapons which could be used by Ukrainian military in the war against Russia.

German officials immediately rejected any claims that the audio indicated Berlin was preparing for war against Moscow.

The leak follows comments from German federal defence minister Boris Pistorius of how his country must be war-ready, or kriegstüchtig. Two years ago this remark would have caused uproar in Germany, but not anymore.

Meanwhile, French president Emmanuel Macron was criticised by European neighbours last week after suggesting it might be necessary to send ground troops to Ukraine. The Kremlin responded that any such deployment would lead to direct conflict between Russia and Nato.

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On today’s In the News podcast, Berlin correspondent Derek Scally discusses the implications of the leak and how European countries including France, Germany and Poland are preparing for an uncertain future overshadowed by an aggressive Russia.

Presented by Sorcha Pollak. Produced by Declan Conlon.