Germany's Scholz Faces Opposition on Ukraine Aid

Chancellor Olaf Scholz is facing criticism for his reluctance to approve a €3 billion aid package for Ukraine before upcoming elections on February 23. Scholz argues that any additional arms deliveries must be financed by suspending Germany's strict debt limits, known as the 'debt brake,' which he claims lacks parliamentary support. Opposition lawmakers accuse him of leveraging the aid package for campaign tactics, asserting that funding could be achieved without increasing debt. Scholz maintains that funding for Ukraine should not come at the expense of other government expenditures, such as pensions or infrastructure. Meanwhile, his coalition government has collapsed amid budget negotiations, complicating the decision-making process. As tensions rise, analysts suggest that a decision on the aid package may ultimately be made after the elections.