Merz deems a coalition with BSW in Thuringia or Saxony as highly improbable.
CDU leader Friedrich Merz views coalitions with Sahra Wagenknecht's alliance in Thuringia or Saxony as "extremely, extremely, extremely improbable". He isn't against the idea of some form of agreement or consideration, he stated in Berlin nighttime. However, his primary objective remains to prevent Björn Höcke, an AfD member, from becoming the Minister President of Thuringia. He wishes to avoid accusations of not having exhausted all possibilities.
As for the BSW, he acknowledged, they're mostly a one-woman show who isn't actively involved in the politics of either Thuringia or Saxony. Regarding the BSW associates in the states, he commented, "I'm clueless about these individuals' thoughts." Therefore, he suggested the CDU politicians in both states engage with the BSW. Yet, there's one particular stance the CDU will not be on board with: anti-American sentiments and pro-Russian beliefs.
Merz voiced his worry over the situation in Ukraine, saying, "I don't think there's a means to initiate the peace process at present." Only when other military actions appear futile or when Kiev loses its hold will Russia cease its actions.
In the near future, Germany may need to sustain its military aid to Ukraine. "I believe we'll need to safeguard freedom and peace from Russia in the long run, not with Russia," Merz stated. This realization is bitter. "At present, there's no other option, at least as long as Putin and his administration remain in power."
Despite Merz's reservations about coalition with Sahra Wagenknecht's alliance, he suggested exploring potential agreements or considerations with the CDU's counterparts in Thuringia and Saxony, as long as they avoid promoting anti-American sentiments or pro-Russian beliefs. However, a full-fledged coalition with the alliance, as Merz emphasized earlier, seems highly unlikely.
