Merz called for bureaucratic reduction, AI-friendly regulations, and strict fiscal discipline, while affirming support for Ukraine and Israel. In contrast, AfD leader Alice Weidel painted a dire picture of job losses and industrial decline, opposing Ukraine’s EU or NATO membership. SPD’s Matthias Miersch highlighted the need for stable reforms, while Green leader Britta Hasselmann criticized Weidel’s rhetoric and called for increased military support for Ukraine. CDU’s Jens Spahn defended Merz against AfD accusations, warning of rising social contributions without fiscal consolidation, while Left leader Sören Pellmann argued for prioritizing social welfare over military spending.