SPD MPs Deliver Bad News to Merz: 'We Will Not Support'

germany - SPD lawmakers raise concerns about CDU leader Friedrich Merz potentially becoming the Chancellor in Germany's coalition government talks.

SPD MPs Express Opposition to Merz's Candidacy

SPD lawmakers indicate that they will not support CDU leader Friedrich Merz in his bid to become the Chancellor in the coalition government. Despite CDU/CSU's 208 seats compared to SPD's 120 in the 630-seat German parliament, Merz's path to Chancellorship could face obstacles if the number of opposing MPs reaches 13.

Public Opinion on Coalition

A recent poll shows that 52% of Germans support a coalition between CDU/CSU and SPD, while 32% are against it and 16% are undecided.

German General Calls for Mandatory Military Service

German army's Korgeneral Harald Gante emphasizes the need to reinstate mandatory military service to meet the country's defense requirements. Gante highlights the necessity of compulsory conscription to enhance Germany's deterrence capabilities, especially against Russia.

Gante also points out the insufficiency in military infrastructure services compared to the number of troops being trained this year. The outgoing Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and the expected next government led by the conservative CDU have expressed support for mandatory military service.