During a recent ZDF summer interview, Söder criticized Saxony’s Minister-President Michael Kretschmer for suggesting dialogue with the AfD, asserting that such engagement would undermine the Union’s integrity. He condemned a recent terrorist attack at a Berlin pride event, emphasizing the need for resilience against such violence. Söder also expressed support for Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s cabinet reshuffle, while acknowledging the government’s current unpopularity and calling for patience as reforms are implemented.