Didi Hallervorden, 90, Campaigns for CDU in Saxony-Anhalt, Criticizes 'War Readiness'

At over 90 years old, comedian Dieter Hallervorden, known as 'Didi', is campaigning for the CDU in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. During the campaign, he has strongly criticized the concept of 'war readiness' (Kriegstüchtigkeit). In an interview, he clarified that he does not confuse the Russian people with 'war criminal Putin'. Hallervorden, born in Dessau, is accompanying CDU top candidate Sven Schulze on the campaign trail. The comedian, known for his satirical work, also made headlines in April 2025 when he used the N-word and Z-word in a sketch during the ARD's 75th anniversary show, mocking a 'woke' zeitgeist that he claims no longer understands satire. Despite his age, Hallervorden remains engaged with contemporary issues and resists easy categorization. The article, published by Der Freitag, explores whether he is a pacifist and whether he fears the Russians.