Union and SPD Begin Coalition Talks Following German Election
Negotiations face challenges over policy differences and recent political controversies.
- The Union (CDU/CSU) and SPD will start coalition negotiations on Friday, with each side sending nine representatives to the talks.
- Key policy disagreements include migration, debt limits, and Ukraine policy, complicating the path to a potential 'grand coalition.'
- SPD leader Lars Klingbeil criticized the Union's inquiry into NGO funding, calling it a divisive move that could hinder negotiations.
- Friedrich Merz, likely Germany's next chancellor, met with French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss strengthening Franco-German relations and European defense.
- The FDP failed to meet the 5% threshold to re-enter the Bundestag, prompting internal debates on leadership and strategy for rebuilding the party.































































































































