In a recent statement, outgoing German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock announced her decision to decline the role of parliamentary leader for her Green Party, citing personal reasons. This announcement comes as the conservative CDU/CSU, the victors of the last month’s election, and the center-left SPD continue their exploratory talks regarding the possibility of forming a coalition. These discussions have gained momentum following an agreement from both parties on plans to implement a significant financial package aimed at boosting defense and infrastructure spending in response to growing concerns over the United States under President Donald Trump’s perceived shift away from Europe and the NATO alliance. As these exploratory talks advance, political figures from both the Social Democrat and Christian Democrat parties have opted to skip “political Ash Wednesday” events, traditionally marked by humorous exchanges among politicians. Notably, Markus Söder, leader of the CDU’s Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU), is expected to deliver a key speech at an event in the southern city of Passau.

Source: https://www.dw.com/en/german-election-green-s-baerbock-wants-to-take-back-seat/live-71829944?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf