Habeck Emphasizes Ban on Combustion Engines as Key Condition for Coalition Participation

In a significant statement regarding the upcoming Bundestagswahl 2025, Robert Habeck, the Greens' candidate for Chancellor, has asserted that a ban on combustion engine vehicles is a non-negotiable condition for any coalition involving his party. Habeck emphasized the necessity of eliminating fossil fuel vehicles from new registrations by 2035, arguing that without this measure, Germany would fail to meet its climate protection targets.

During interviews with RTL and ntv, Habeck expressed his commitment to facing challenging discussions rather than avoiding them. He stated that any government unwilling to engage in difficult debates is not needed. In response to potential coalition talks with the Union, Habeck made it clear: if the Union's position is to shy away from these critical discussions, the Greens would not participate.

Habeck also addressed the electoral strategy of the Greens, suggesting that achieving around 14 to 15 percent of the vote would be essential for establishing a clear governmental option for his party following the election. He emphasized that the more votes the Greens secure, the stronger their position will be in negotiations focused on substantive policy issues.

Meanwhile, the stance of Markus Söder, the Bavarian Minister-President from the CSU, starkly contrasts with Habeck's views. Söder openly opposes a ban on combustion engines, insisting that such a prohibition should be explicitly stated in any coalition agreement. He characterized the Greens as adversaries of the automotive industry, asserting that cooperation with them would hinder economic progress. Consequently, Söder declared a firm stance against any potential Schwarz-Grün coalition.

As the political landscape evolves ahead of the election, the divergent views on climate policy and automotive regulations are likely to shape the discourse leading up to the ballot. The emphasis on climate protection remains a pivotal issue, and parties will need to navigate these discussions carefully to appeal to the electorate's concerns.