Merz Discusses Migration, Taurus, and Söder on 'Caren Miosga': 'We Make No Promises We Can't Keep'

In a recent appearance on the ARD program 'Caren Miosga,' CDU leader Friedrich Merz showcased his potential as a future chancellor, discussing a range of pressing issues including migration and government policies. With elections on the horizon, Merz emphasized the importance of prudent governance and setting realistic expectations.

Responding to questions about tax policies, Merz was cautious yet straightforward. When pressed about potential tax increases under his leadership, he noted that while one should not dismiss future possibilities, the current coalition agreement does not include any tax hikes. He assured viewers that the government would focus on effective administration.

Merz also addressed the contentious negotiations within the coalition, remarking that while the SPD fought hard during discussions, the distribution of ministerial positions was equitable. He dismissed the notion that coalition formation should be a simple arithmetic exercise, insisting that it involved complex negotiations and occasional camaraderie among partners.

On the topic of migration, Merz called for a significant reduction in asylum applications, expressing concern over current numbers. He indicated that the goal should be to keep the number of applications below 100,000 and suggested measures such as suspending family reunifications to help achieve this target. He expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts with the SPD on this issue.

When asked about the continuity of policies from former Chancellor Angela Merkel, Merz acknowledged some similarities but asserted that the current leadership aims to implement new strategies for border management. He pointed out that the previous administration had been resistant to certain border control measures.

In a lighter moment, he commented on Bavarian Minister-President Markus Söder's humorous approach to politics, highlighting that Söder's style had injected some levity into coalition talks, although Merz noted that Söder did not always get his way.

Addressing environmental policies, Merz hinted at forthcoming increases in CO2 prices, indicating that these changes would serve as an incentive for citizens to adopt more sustainable practices. He refrained from discussing previous commitments regarding climate funds, instead preparing the public for the potential financial impact of these measures.

Merz also shared insights on national defense, particularly regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He urged the Ukrainian military to adopt a more proactive stance and proposed strategic targets that could shift the dynamics of the war. He expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of peace negotiations with Russia, suggesting that strength rather than weakness would yield better results in diplomatic efforts.

Overall, Merz's statements reflect a blend of traditional conservative values and a pragmatic approach to modern governance challenges, setting the stage for his potential candidacy as chancellor in the upcoming elections.