Germany is losing that control. It seems peak German influence was during Greek crisis a few years back. Even though IMF and World Bank (sorry, but basically US based and influenced organizations) and the Obama Administration insisted on the Germany taking easier course on Greece crisis -- cutting the debt owned by Greeks -- Germany did it its own way, in opposition to the US demands -- and made a deal where Greece is and will be responsible for repaying all of the 100% debt it owes. Basically they did with the Greece as they pleased in sharp contrast to US open demands and criticism. There was US Secretary of Tresury Mr. Lew travelling to Berlin to speak to their senses, but was ignored. Soo...

Now, of course, we can argue if it makes economical sense or not. The point though is that -- and forgive me, but I like playing in my mind, and this is my private little conspiracy theory I have never shared -- Germany seemed to be getting too much power in the EU. By the US standards that is. The US long term policy for EU and Europe is to make sure there is no single one power governing or having influence over the whole continent. So Germany seemed to be braking that rule.

And, what happened next? Again, conspiracy theorist here, but good food for thought, just think about it: * Lufthansa airplane is suddenly dropping from the sky * German automanufacturer (VW) turns out to be braking federal laws, with its bosses in the US in prison because of the diesel-gate (VW was picked as one just to make an example. The same issues are with BMWs and Mercedes, but hey we just want to teach a lesson here, not destroy them completely, right?) * Migration crisis. German Chancellor is in no position now, even domestically speaking, to talk about issues with this or that -- fix that big mess with migrants first! That's what Ms Merkel hears from her voters. What EU power? Gone!

Just a conspiracy theory. But it kind of fits. Ans looks very American too, i.e. soft power. You know if we want, your cars won't be sold here. If we want you will need to pay up too 2% GDP on military (and your voters hate it), if we want your airlines my look not that safe anymore. If we want we might even destabilize you a bit with huge influx of migrants.

So, want to show Greece or some other European countries where they place in the hierarchy is? Well, make sure you discuss is with your overlord first.

Again, conspiracy theory. My own private crazy thing.

But to answer the question seriously -- German politics is blocked from entering EU stage with serious decisions regarding other countries by the migrant crisis. They are still the biggest and strongest player. But nothing compared to peak power during Greek Debt crisis. They started to feel to powerful and independent, seems all back to "normal".