The German chancellorship debate focused on crucial topics including the economy and Ukraine. Friedrich Merz asserted Germany’s support for Ukraine while criticizing bureaucracy, while other candidates discussed their perspectives on energy policy. Tensions over US relations highlighted differing approaches, culminating in Merz leading in polls amid potential coalition discussions.
In the final debate for the German chancellorship, the four leading candidates, Friedrich Merz, Olaf Scholz, Robert Habeck, and Alice Weidel, confronted pivotal issues including the economy, the war in Ukraine, and the influence of US Vice President JD Vance. Tensions rose as candidates debated their positions on Germany’s role in the conflict in Ukraine, with Merz asserting Germany’s unwavering support for Ukraine, while Weidel prioritized peace and criticized proposed missile support as a provocation towards Russia.
Candidates discussed the struggling German economy, where Merz emphasized the need to rein in bureaucracy and reflected on the previous government’s nuclear energy policies, attributing rising energy costs to their decisions. Weidel echoed his sentiments about nuclear, coal, and gas, holding the green energy transition responsible for exacerbating costs. Habeck countered, attributing economic challenges to high energy prices and the reduced availability of Russian gas, calling for investments in infrastructure and addressing socio-economic disparities.
Discussion turned to US relations, particularly after Weidel’s meeting with US officials during the Munich Security Conference. She endorsed Vance’s controversial remarks criticizing European democracy, while Merz distanced himself from these views, maintaining the importance of Germany’s autonomy in foreign discussions. Habeck condemned the Trump administration for undermining Western values, tying it to current geopolitical dilemmas.
The debate revealed the deep divisions among candidates regarding Germany’s foreign policy and economic strategy. With Merz currently leading in polls, there is speculation about his potential coalition with the SPD or Greens. The candidates’ positions on Ukraine and economic issues will significantly shape their campaigns leading up to the election.
Original Source: www.euronews.com
