On April 2, 2025, the popular talk show "Markus Lanz" returns to ZDF, featuring a lineup of prominent guests discussing pressing political and social issues. Broadcasted live from Hamburg, the show is set to start at 23:35, following the DFB-Pokal and "Auslandsjournal". Since its inception in 2008, "Markus Lanz" has become a staple of ZDF's programming, airing three times a week on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
This week’s episode will include a range of topics that resonate with current events in Germany and beyond. The guests slated to appear on the show include:
- Peer Steinbrück, former Federal Minister of Finance, who will address the ongoing coalition negotiations and propose his ideas for structural reforms in Germany.
- Elmar Theveßen, head of the ZDF Washington bureau, who will discuss Donald Trump's recently declared "Liberation Day," which he claims marks the beginning of a "golden age" for the U.S. economy.
- Ursula Weidenfeld, a journalist and economic expert, who will analyze the repercussions of Trump's tariff policies and explore how Germany and Europe might respond.
- Michael Thumann, author and Moscow correspondent for "Die Zeit," who will provide insights into the current mood within Russian society and how President Vladimir Putin views the United States and Europe after 25 years in power.
As the political landscape in Germany evolves, the coalition negotiations between the Union and the SPD are particularly critical at this juncture. Steinbrück, known for his financial expertise, will likely shed light on the challenges and potential solutions regarding the financing of various initiatives that are currently under discussion. The Union is advocating for a strict adherence to the debt brake, while voices within the SPD are calling for a reform of fiscal rules to allow for more flexibility.
Meanwhile, Trump's "Liberation Day" has stirred considerable debate. This day symbolizes a shift in U.S. economic policy, with Trump pushing for increased tariffs on European goods and stricter trade restrictions. Critics argue that these measures could harm international relations and disrupt global trade, particularly affecting Germany's export-driven economy. The European Union is reportedly preparing counter-tariffs in response to Trump's aggressive stance.
Thumann's analysis of Russian society will delve into the profound changes under Putin's regime. After 25 years in power, the Russian landscape has been shaped significantly by state control, especially following the country's isolation due to the invasion of Ukraine. Thumann's insights will be crucial for understanding the social tensions that have emerged and how they may influence Russia's future direction.
"Markus Lanz" has adapted its format over the years, shifting from a broad mix of entertainment and personal stories to a more politically focused discussion platform, especially since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. This evolution reflects the pressing need for dialogue on significant issues affecting not only Germany but the global community.
For viewers who may miss the live broadcast, episodes of "Markus Lanz" are available for streaming on the ZDF media library, where they can be accessed for up to one month after airing. This flexibility allows audiences to engage with the content at their convenience, further enhancing the show's reach and impact.
In addition to "Markus Lanz," ZDF also features other political talk shows such as "hart aber fair" on Mondays, "maischberger" on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and "Maybrit Illner" on Thursdays, providing a comprehensive platform for political discourse.
As the show prepares to air tonight, anticipation builds around the discussions that will unfold, particularly in light of the current political climate in Germany and abroad. With such a diverse and knowledgeable panel, viewers can expect a thought-provoking evening of conversation that tackles the issues at the forefront of public concern.
Markus Lanz continues to be a vital part of the ZDF lineup, consistently delivering engaging and relevant discussions that resonate with audiences. Tune in tonight at 23:35 to catch this week’s insightful episode.
