Friedrich Merz at Arctic Summit Amid Growing Coalition Uncertainty

At the Arctic summit in Finland, Chancellor Friedrich Merz delivered a speech on the EU’s strategy for the polar region while his coalition at home shows signs of strain. Reports from Berlin reveal that Merz’s support within the governing coalition has noticeably weakened, with internal discussions highlighting doubts about the stability of his leadership. Meanwhile, the AfD is reinforcing its pro‑Russia foreign policy stance, even consulting a former commentator who described himself as a “Putin‑Versteher.” Speculation has also surfaced regarding the potential dismissal of SPD labour minister Bärbel Bas, adding to the political turbulence. The situation underscores a sharp contrast between Merz’s outward diplomatic engagement and the fragile domestic footing of his administration.