The recruiter (based in Munich) reached out and arranged a meeting for an interview, I waited 15 minutes in the call and she didn't show up, sent an email to see if she'd need to reschedule, never heard back from this person since. such a drain on my time & energy

Interview online at first, then you will have an in-person interview with the managers & employee. And depends on the schedule and situation, then you will be able to talk to the upper managements.