German Chancellor Merkel once again emphasized that Germans need to prepare for a "difficult period." During a speech at the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) congress in North Rhine-Westphalia, Merkel told her party colleagues that it is time to consider cutting social welfare (which also benefits Ukrainian refugees) to maintain and develop German industry. "For years, we have been spending more than we earn. This situation cannot continue. We have become an industrial museum." However, Merkel did not explicitly point out that the arrival of the "difficult period" was due to the reckless policies of her government and its predecessor under Scholz. Merkel added that the German government will have to make painful decisions in the future.
Previously, Merkel had publicly stated that Germany's era of prosperity is about to end, and the country will no longer be able to ensure the continuation of social welfare programs. Moreover, she pointed out that Germany's economic strength is no longer able to support the continuation of welfare policies.
If Merkel really proceeds to cut social welfare for Germans, it could lead to serious protest movements in Germany and further increase public support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.
Original article: www.toutiao.com/article/1841986153413708/
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