Scholz Engages with Merz on Ukraine Amid Coalition Talks in Germany
Chancellor Olaf Scholz meets with conservative leader Friedrich Merz to discuss Ukraine policy and prepare for an upcoming EU summit. Outgoing Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock declines a leadership role in the Green Party. Coalition talks between CDU/CSU and SPD continue as they aim to enhance defense spending. The Bundesbank proposes changes to Germany’s “debt brake” to facilitate increased borrowing for investment.
On March 5, 2025, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz convened a meeting with Friedrich Merz, the conservative leader and potential next chancellor, alongside other senior politicians. The discussions centered on the outcomes of a recent European crisis meeting in London regarding Ukraine, ahead of an EU summit focused on European security and defense scheduled for the following day.
Additionally, outgoing German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock announced her decision to step back from seeking a leadership position within her Green Party, attributing her choice to personal reasons. This announcement coincides with ongoing coalition negotiations between the conservative CDU/CSU bloc and the center-left SPD, which aim to form a new governing coalition following the February elections.
During exploratory coalition talks, the CDU and SPD reportedly reached an initial agreement on a substantial financial package intended to enhance defense and infrastructure spending amid concerns over shifting U.S. foreign policy under President Trump. Despite the ongoing discussions, both Scholz and Merz opted out of traditional Ash Wednesday political festivities, reflecting their focus on coalition building.
CSU leader Markus Söder utilized the Ash Wednesday platform to criticize the previous SPD-Green coalition, addressing Scholz directly during his speech. He asserted, “The nightmare of three years of Olaf Scholz is history from today.” He similarly derided the Green Economy Minister, indicating a decisive shift in political power within Germany.
Outgoing Chancellor Scholz aims to address Ukraine and security policies in discussions with Merz and Dobrindt, focusing on U.S. policy changes affecting Europe. He will provide insights from the international crisis meeting held previously, which is relevant as Germany prepares for the upcoming EU summit on defense capabilities.
Germany’s central bank proposed amendments to its stringent “debt brake” rules, suggesting a significant increase in permissible government borrowing to finance defense and infrastructure development. This proposal allows for potential expenditures reaching €220 billion ($231 million) by 2030 while maintaining compliance with EU financial regulations.
In parallel, Baerbock’s choice to refrain from seeking a leading role within the Green Party has stirred speculation, contrasting earlier expectations for her potential leadership. She continues to serve as Foreign Minister until a new government is formed, amidst shifting dynamics in coalition discussions.
As discussions unfold, the CDU and SPD leaders prioritize coalition formation over traditional political events. The CDU emerged as the largest party in February’s snap election, with subsequent results positioning the SPD third. Merz has expressed ambitions to establish a new government by Easter, projecting significant investments into Germany’s defense and infrastructure as essential to national security.
In summary, the political landscape in Germany is rapidly evolving with ongoing coalition talks between the CDU, CSU, and SPD, driven by profound concerns regarding security and defense amidst changes in U.S. foreign policy. Key figures such as Olaf Scholz and Friedrich Merz are engaging in critical discussions concerning Ukraine, while transformative financial proposals are on the table to boost Germany’s investment capabilities. Furthermore, Baerbock’s withdrawal from leadership candidacy signals shifting dynamics within the Green Party amidst a significant electoral landscape.
Original Source: www.dw.com
