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Union–SPD Leaders Hold Year’s Final Coalition Committee Meeting as Decisions Prove Scarce

The session tests whether the coalition can show momentum after months of sinking polls.

Overview

  • The meeting began at 17:30 at the Chancellery, closing out the coalition committee’s calendar for the year.
  • Chancellor Friedrich Merz signaled low expectations for breakthroughs, saying most agenda points are for discussion rather than decision.
  • A decision is expected on an infrastructure fast‑track to accelerate bridge repairs and the expansion of rail, highways, and waterways by labeling projects of overriding public interest.
  • Rapid agreements are unlikely on the heating law overhaul or on an industrial power price, with positions diverging and EU approval talks still unresolved.
  • Leaders plan to brief results Thursday morning after also reviewing the Ukraine situation, disputes over Bürgergeld changes, and the pensions commission.