# 177. Olaf Scholz: Putin, Power, and Far-Right Populism

An episode of [The Rest Is Politics: Leading](https://invisiblenetwork.ai/podcast/1665265193), 23 Feb 2026, 59 min.

Audio: https://pdst.fm/e/traffic.megaphone.fm/GLT3634429573.mp3?updated=1771518513

Does the former German Chancellor think that Germany was wrong to rely on Russian gas in the run up to the war in Ukraine? What does Olaf Scholz think is behind the rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany? Why will building respect help bring about a more equal and resilient society? Rory and Alastair are joined by Olaf Scholz, former German chancellor, to answer all this and more. Join The Rest Is Politics Plus: Start your free trial at therestispolitics.com to unlock exclusive bonus content – including Rory and Alastair’s miniseries – plus ad-free listening, early access to episodes and live show tickets, an exclusive members’ newsletter, discounted book prices, and a private chatroom on Discord. Social Producer: Celine Charles Video Editor: Josh Smith + James Clayden Producer: Alice Horrell Senior Producer: Nicole Maslen Head of Politics: Tom Whiter Exec Producers: Tony Pastor + Jack Davenport Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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