Overview
- In a year-end interview with Süddeutsche Zeitung, the former federal president sharply criticized the black-red coalition's pace and resolve.
- He said leaders must act in crisis rather than citing the Ukraine war or U.S. tariffs as constraints.
- He called for leaner government, suggesting fewer ministries and a clearer promise that justifies public sacrifices.
- He reframed migration and post-conflict rebuilding as opportunities, citing skilled Syrians and future reconstruction in Gaza and Ukraine as potential economic gains for Germany.
- The remarks were distributed by dpa to multiple outlets on December 30, and no immediate response from Chancellor Friedrich Merz's cabinet was reported.