On April 9, the newly elected Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) and Lars Klingbeil (SPD) announced the formation of a coalition between the Christian Democratic Union and the Social Democrats.

The coalition was established after successful elections in February, where the pro-Ukrainian Christian Democratic Union emerged victorious, while the right-wing populist party «Alternative for Germany» took second place.

Merz and support for Ukraine: implications for German policy

Germany remains a key ally for Ukraine, ranking second in terms of individual contributions to the country, according to the Kiel Institute. The coalition agreement spans 144 pages, outlining CDU and SPD's positions on Ukraine:

A strong, independent, and democratic Ukraine is crucial for Germany's geopolitical stability and security.

Germany will continue to offer financial, military, and political support to Ukraine.

Together with its partners, Germany will develop a strategy aimed at achieving a sustainable peace where Ukraine holds a strong position. This strategy will include material and political security guarantees.

Germany will be involved in Ukraine's reconstruction and will seek ways to utilize frozen Russian assets for financial and military assistance to Ukraine.

Germany supports the prospect of Ukraine joining NATO, as reaffirmed at the NATO summit in Washington.

The country advocates for the establishment of a special tribunal to properly prosecute and punish acts of aggression against Ukraine.

During his election campaign, Friedrich Merz pledged support for Ukraine, a commitment reflected in the coalition agreement. The deal also includes plans to strengthen the German military. In March, the German parliament approved a military aid package for Ukraine worth 3 billion euros and a bill to increase funding for the armed forces.

The coalition agreement requires approval from SPD members and senior representatives of CDU/CSU. If approved, Merz is expected to be sworn in as Chancellor in the Bundestag in early May.