Union and SPD Leaders Begin Final Push to Resolve Key Coalition Disputes

As coalition talks intensify, unresolved issues on migration, taxes, and a €600 billion funding gap dominate discussions aimed at forming a government by Easter.

The 19-member leadership group from Union and SPD has started decisive negotiations to finalize a coalition agreement, with Easter set as the deadline.
Major sticking points include migration policy, with disagreements on border returns, and tax reforms, where the SPD seeks higher taxes on top earners while the Union resists increases.
A projected €600 billion funding shortfall by 2029 is forcing leaders to prioritize and cut back on ambitious proposals from earlier working group discussions.
SPD co-chair Saskia Esken faces internal criticism and uncertainty over her leadership role, adding tension to the party's position in the negotiations.
Despite the challenges, leaders from both sides express optimism about reaching an agreement to ensure political stability and counter the AfD's growing influence.