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Chancellor Merz Faces Coalition Turmoil Amid Economic Decline

3/10/2026

24 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Chancellor Friedrich Merz's government faces rising pressure as the economy slows and conflicts weigh.
The CDU/CSU-SPD coalition is divided over reforms, conservatives seeking spending cuts while the SPD protects the safety net.
Merz's support for U.S. and Israeli actions against Iran faces opposition from many Germans.
The AfD is gaining support, especially in eastern states, threatening the coalition's stability.

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Story summary

Chancellor Friedrich Merz's government faces rising pressure as the economy slows and conflicts weigh.
The CDU/CSU-SPD coalition is divided over reforms, conservatives seeking spending cuts while the SPD protects the safety net.
Merz's support for U.S. and Israeli actions against Iran faces opposition from many Germans.
The AfD is gaining support, especially in eastern states, threatening the coalition's stability.