EU reliant on next German government’s climate resolve to uphold Green Deal’s promises

The aspiring German coalition government under conservative leader Friedrich Merz is set to assume control at a time of unprecedented transatlantic turmoil for the EU. Amid a backlash against global climate policy led by the new US government, that is echoed by populist parties in Europe, the German government has a key role to play in upholding the EU’s Green Deal that promises to revive European industry as a green technology leader. While the budding German coalition’s plans suggest continuity with the country’s energy transition, ensuring that Merz's goal of economic recovery falls in line with European climate plans might require more from the next chancellor than simply holding course.