Scholz calls for unity on security and prosperity as coalition faces collapse

Chancellor Olaf Scholz urged political parties to pass measures like raising child benefits and adjusting tax thresholds before a snap election in February. He emphasized that Germans should not have to choose between security and prosperity. Scholz's coalition collapsed last week, leaving him in a challenging position as polls show the conservative opposition likely to regain power. Germany's economy is facing difficulties, including a second year of contraction. In his speech, Scholz highlighted the need for support for Ukraine without compromising pensions or healthcare. He proposed overriding the country's debt limit to finance this support, while opposition leader Friedrich Merz indicated openness to reforming the debt brake.