Overview
- Grönemeyer made the remarks in rbb’s Berlin Sounds Inside with Anja Caspary, published on January 5, 2026.
- He said Angela Merkel "never communicated" during her 16 years in office beyond the phrase "Wir schaffen das."
- He linked the limited messaging to public "Beklemmungen" and to opportunities for populist actors.
- He disclosed that he declined all invitations to the Chancellery under Merkel, saying he did not want to speak with her.
- He praised Germany’s 2015 welcome culture and ongoing civic engagement for refugees, while noting Merkel nonetheless represented the country well.