Germany prepares for snap election as key issues emerge

Germany will hold a snap general election on February 23 after the ruling coalition collapsed in December. Key issues include the economy, migration, and support for Ukraine amid its ongoing war with Russia. The Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leads in polls with 29% support, followed by the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) at 21%. Chancellor Olaf Scholz's Social Democratic Party (SPD) is third with 16%, while the Greens have 12%. Candidates include Scholz, who emphasizes cautious support for Ukraine, and CDU leader Friedrich Merz, who advocates stricter immigration policies. The election will also address potential reforms to Germany's debt limits and public spending.