Politico: Staff turmoil weakens Merz’s position

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is facing growing internal instability in his office, with key personnel changes and a lack of close advisers weakening his leadership, Politico reports, citing sources familiar with the matter.

According to the publication, none of the allies who accompanied Merz on his path to power have retained key positions in his team. His personal assistant left the chancellery after 11 weeks, the head of the office was dismissed, and the press secretary was demoted.

Despite high-profile campaign promises, including tax reforms and economic changes, the government’s overall policy direction has remained largely unchanged. Unresolved issues include high energy prices, tax burdens, and bureaucracy.

Some critics compare Merz to Angela Merkel; however, former CDU officials argue that Merkel acted more decisively in coalition negotiations and did not allow herself to be pressured by coalition partners.

Former Finance Minister Christian Lindner also pointed to a discrepancy between Merz’s pre-election statements and his current policy approach.

In foreign policy, the chancellor has demonstrated a more assertive stance than his predecessors, including Olaf Scholz, particularly regarding European security and support for Ukraine.

Politico notes that Merz’s second year in office is likely to be challenging due to multiple risks, including pressure from right-wing groups and potential external challenges. Polls suggest low public approval, with only 15% of Germans expressing satisfaction with the chancellor’s performance.

By Vugar Khalilov