Exploratory Coalition Talks Begin in Germany

German election winner Friedrich Merz of the conservative Christian Democratic Union wants to have a government formed by Easter. To this end, exploratory coalition talks were moved up from next week to today.

Merz’s urgency reflects the geopolitical pressure Germany is facing, but his potential coalition partner, the Social Democrats (spd), may slow things down or make governing impossible.

It is not certain whether a government will be formed or whether the spd will join a government.
—Lars Klingbeil, spd coleader

Uncertain future: Even if a coalition is formed in record time, the challenges Germany and Europe face are far too big for a weak coalition government. The Trumpet expects a strong authoritarian leader to rise out of this government crisis.

Learn more: Read “After Trump’s Victory, Watch Germany.”