Overview

• Negotiators from CDU/CSU and SPD are nearing a coalition agreement after nearly four weeks of intensive talks, with discussions set to resume at 9:30 AM in Berlin.
• A historic 500 billion euro financial package for defense, infrastructure, and climate protection was agreed upon early in the process, necessitating constitutional amendments.
• Internal dissent within the CDU has grown, with some members criticizing leadership decisions and demanding greater involvement in the negotiation process.
• International economic pressures, including U.S. tariff policies, are adding urgency to the talks as concerns about a potential recession loom over Germany's export-driven economy.
• The original goal of forming a government by Easter has been delayed, with May 7 now seen as a potential date for electing Friedrich Merz as chancellor.