In the second half of 2020，against the backdrop of the Corona crisis in Europe，Germany assumed the rotating six-months presidency of the EU. It made the formation of a “Corona presidency” under the motto “Together for Europe’s recovery” its major priority and brought about a number of notable achievements. It has made substantial progress in policy areas such as the response to the pandemic，climate，digitalization and foreign affairs. But few results have been achieved in other areas such as migration，relations with Africa and EU enlargement. The presidency’s overall performance，however，was remarkable. The author believes that during its presidency Germany’s stewardship in general withstood many tests，and while its leadership and influence in the EU has its own unique ways and characteristics，it does at the same time reveal considerable limitations. In its style of governance Germany still rather prefers to “dominate” than to “lead”. The historical choice of Germany’s post-war development has left its mark on its style of leadership and its influence in Europe. Multiple factors have to be considered in assessing the decision-making of Germany’s European policy. From a subjective perspective，historical experience and lessons have led to Germany’s cautious attitude towards geopolitical strategy and ambition. From an objective perspective，the internal voting mechanisms and the distribution of power in the EU also affect Germany’s role as a leading force.