SPD cautious about coalition talks with Merz's conservatives

Germany's Social Democrats (SPD) have agreed to begin coalition talks with Friedrich Merz's conservatives, but emphasized that their support is not guaranteed. This follows the SPD's significant defeat in the recent election and the collapse of their previous coalition. New SPD leader Lars Klingbeil expressed the need for serious negotiations, criticizing Merz's public negotiation style. The SPD is open to discussing defense spending and debt reforms but insists on confidentiality in talks. Merz's party won only 28.5% of the vote, complicating efforts to secure a governing majority. Both the defense fund and debt brake reforms require two-thirds parliamentary support, which may be challenging with the new lawmakers set to be sworn in by March 25.