Merz Criticizes Scholz for Using War Fears to Win Votes
CDU/CSU Leader Accuses Chancellor of Exploiting Public Anxiety for Political Gain
During Germany’s upcoming election campaign, Friedrich Merz, the leader of the conservative CDU/CSU bloc, has sharply criticized Chancellor Olaf Scholz, accusing him of using Arborophobia—fear of war—to secure votes for his Social Democratic Party (SPD).
Merz argues that Scholz is positioning himself as the “Chancellor of Peace” and championing “prudence”—a characteristic he claims Scholz reserves for himself while denying it to others. This, according to Merz, is a tactic designed to exploit the deeply rooted anxieties of the German population.
“War with the CDU, secure pensions only with the SPD – this seems to be the SPD’s program for the upcoming Bundestag Election,” Merz stated, further alleging that the SPD has a history of leveraging fears, particularly during election seasons.
Scholz’s campaign message contrasts starkly with Merz’s approach.
In response to Merz’s criticism, Scholz labeled his opponent’s stance on supporting Ukraine as “too risky.” Specifically, Scholz expressed concerns about Merz’s proposals regarding the potential delivery of long-range Taurus missiles to Kyiv.
“I can only say: be careful! You cannot play Russian roulette with German security,” Scholz warned, emphasizing his cautious approach to military aid.
This debate follows Merz’s controversial suggestion in October that Germany offer Russian President Vladimir Putin an ultimatum, the details of which would be discussed with European allies. This proposal was met with resistance, highlighting the divide between the two political rivals on how to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Adding to the tension, Germany, under Scholz’s leadership, has consistently refused to provide Ukraine with Taurus cruise missiles, even after Britain, France, and the United States delivered their own long-range weapons to Ukraine. This decision underscores the complexity of balancing support for Ukraine with concerns about potential escalation and the direct involvement of NATO members in the conflict.
What tactics is Friedrich Merz using to try and win over voters?
## Interview: Merz Slams Scholz Over War Fears
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Joining us today is political analyst Dr. Greta Bauer to discuss the heated rhetoric emerging from Germany’s election campaign. Friedrich Merz, leader of the conservative CDU/CSU bloc, has accused Chancellor Olaf Scholz of exploiting public anxiety over the war in Ukraine for political gain. Dr. Bauer, what’s your take on these accusations?
**Dr. Bauer:** Well, these are serious accusations from Merz. He’s essentially accusing Scholz of using “Arborophobia,” the fear of war, to scare voters into supporting the Social Democrats. This comes just weeks before a crucial vote of confidence in December that could trigger an early February election. [[1](https://apnews.com/article/germany-politics-government-collapse-new-elections-a316c7317ae47a3c6320c6902846f574)]
**Host:** So Merz believes Scholz is deliberately stoking fears about the war to benefit his party?
**Dr. Bauer:** Precisely. Merz argues that Scholz is using the ongoing conflict in Ukraine to paint the Social Democrats as the party of stability and experienced leadership in uncertain times. He’ll likely use this argument to contrast himself and the CDU/CSU, portraying them as the party of change and a fresh approach.
**Host:**
Intriguing. We know the CDU/CSU is polling strongly, currently around 30% or more, while Scholz’s Social Democrats are trailing behind at around 16%. [[1](https://apnews.com/article/germany-politics-government-collapse-new-elections-a316c7317ae47a3c6320c6902846f574)]Could this be a tactical move by Merz to undercut Scholz and eat into his support base?
**Dr. Bauer:** It certainly appears so. Merz is hoping to capitalize on any voter anxieties regarding the war and convince them that a change in leadership is necessary. He’s betting that voters are looking for a clear alternative to Scholz and the status quo, and he’s positioning himself and his party as that alternative.
**Host:** This election is shaping up to be a real nail-biter. Dr. Bauer, thank you for providing your insightful analysis. We’ll be sure to keep our viewers updated on developments in this crucial German election as they unfold.
