As Germany approaches a critical election, political tensions intensify between key parties and leaders. CSU leader Markus Söder has issued a stern warning to the CDU against forming compromises that could lead to a coalition with the Greens, insisting that the Union's program must be fully implemented. Söder emphasizes social policy concerns, such as improving the mother's pension, and insists on overcoming what he describes as a "depression instead of hope" sweeping the nation.
CDU leader Friedrich Merz is also vocal, sharply criticizing Chancellor Olaf Scholz and the current government, describing their European policy as a "total failure." Merz accuses Scholz of damaging Germany's international relations through disinterest and inaction. He calls for a more active German role in European affairs, particularly in Ukraine policy.
In the run-up to the election, the CDU/CSU is presenting a platform focusing on tax cuts, a hard stance on asylum policy, and the reintroduction of the military draft. The SPD, on the other hand, makes the maintenance of the 48% pension level a condition for any coalition agreement. This demand is contentious, as it is considered costly by some experts.
The political landscape remains dynamic, with the CDU/CSU polling at around 31-33%. As the parties jockey for position, the possibility of forming a viable coalition remains uncertain. The political rhetoric underscores the stakes involved, as each party aims to present itself as the solution to Germany's current challenges. With election day approaching, the debate continues over the direction Germany will take in addressing both domestic and international issues.
