German Political Leaders Clash Over Migration Policy and AfD Cooperation Concerns

CDU's Friedrich Merz defends stricter migration proposals as SPD's Olaf Scholz warns against constitutional violations and potential ties to the far-right AfD.

CDU leader Friedrich Merz has proposed stricter migration controls, including border checks and the rejection of all illegal entries, even for those with protection claims.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz criticized Merz's plans as unconstitutional and inconsistent with Germany's commitment to asylum rights enshrined in the Basic Law.
Merz stated he would present migration policy proposals to the Bundestag and seek support from SPD, Greens, and FDP, while denying any collaboration with the far-right AfD.
Concerns have been raised by political opponents, including the SPD and Greens, about Merz's reliability in maintaining the 'Brandmauer' against AfD cooperation.
The debate follows a tragic knife attack in Aschaffenburg, which has intensified discussions on migration and public safety in the lead-up to the Bundestag election.

Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung