CDU: Friedrich Merz wants to reduce electricity prices for all households

The CDU had promised a reduction in electricity taxes in its “Immediate Program for Prosperity and Security,” which was approved at the party conference in February 2025. Relief was also guaranteed in the coalition agreement. So far, however, the black-red coalition has not kept this promise.

There could be scope for relief "if growth solidifies and becomes more stable," said Merz. He pointed out that the forecast for expected economic growth had been increased from 0.5 percent to 1.3 percent now and to 1.1 percent next year. One percent growth corresponds to around ten billion euros in higher tax revenue in Germany. Of this, five billion went to the federal government. "That's exactly the one percent growth that gives us this leeway," says Merz.

Words of praise for Bärbel Bas

During his appearance, the Chancellor also spoke about the resignation of Bärbel Bas. He thanked the previous Labor Minister for her job in the cabinet. “I regret your personal decision, but of course I respect it,” said Merz. "I can imagine what a difficult time she is going through." Merz also announced that she would ask Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to appoint Alexander Schweitzer, proposed by the SPD, as Bas's successor in the Ministry of Labor.

Bas announced on Monday morning that she would resign as minister and SPD co-leader. As a Green, she cited mourning for her stepdaughter who died as well as ongoing attacks from the Union.

Merz initially did not respond to the allegations. When asked, he then said that he had demanded Christian consideration from his own party and offered Bas to take all the time she needed. "We had differences on the matter, but I can say for myself that I only ever discussed matters with her on factual issues - never personally."

Merz also commented on the exploratory talks in Berlin. He called on the SPD and the Greens not to enter into a coalition with the Left in the capital. What we are experiencing in Berlin is an unprecedented event, said the Chancellor. He reiterated his call on the SPD and the Greens to immediately end talks with “this radical left-wing party” in Berlin.

There is a majority together with the CDU in the House of Representatives in Berlin, said Merz, referring to the SPD and the Greens. This majority could enable the formation of a stable government in Berlin.

Merz distances himself from Trump

In view of Donald Trump's planned import of Russian diesel, Merz distanced himself from the US President. Merz said the federal government takes note of the agreement between the United States and Russia on the export of diesel. »For Germany and for Europe, such a decision is out of the question. Russia will only negotiate seriously under pressure, and that is why we are sticking to our sanctions on Russia.”

After Moscow's ruthless attacks on Ukraine's civilian energy supply, sanctions would have to be tightened even further. "Russia will obviously not respond to peaceful proposals and proposals for current negotiations." Russia has now responded to Trump's proposal for an energy ceasefire with massive attacks on civilian Ukrainian energy supplies. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyj can rely on Germany and Europe in this situation.