Friedrich Merz Criticized for Extensive Use of Government Aircraft
The CDU leader has utilized the Bundeswehr's flight service far more than any other parliamentary group leader, raising questions about taxpayer expense.
- Friedrich Merz, CDU leader, used the Bundeswehr's flight service 30 times during the current legislative period, significantly more than any other Bundestag faction leader.
- In the past year alone, Merz took 11 flights to destinations including Brussels, Paris, Tel Aviv, and Rzeszow, a key stop for travel to Kyiv.
- Only one other faction leader, Rolf Mützenich of the SPD, used the service during the same period, taking just two flights for official purposes.
- Leftist politician Sören Pellmann criticized Merz's frequent flights, calling them an irresponsible use of taxpayer funds and likening his behavior to that of a self-styled future chancellor.
- The CDU defended Merz's travel, stating that the flights were conducted in accordance with official guidelines and were necessary for engagements with key European partners.
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