CDU leader Friedrich Merz indicates that his party shares more foreign policy positions with the Greens than with the SPD, particularly regarding Ukraine. This aligns with comments from Green leaders, including Franziska Brantner, who also noted closer ties with Merz than with Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Green party members criticize the SPD’s stance on Ukraine amid calls for ‘clarity and honesty’ in foreign policy. Merz emphasizes the need for a fundamental shift in economic policy but insists the Union is focused on earning votes before coalition discussions.