SPD's Regional Election Victory Turns Bitter Amid Coalition Challenges

The recent regional election victory of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's Social Democrats (SPD) is overshadowed by the realization that they need support from the pro-Russian populist Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW) to govern. The continued rise of populist parties is jeopardizing political stability in Germany.

The euphoria of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's Social Democrats' regional election victory quickly dissipated as the party confronts the sobering reality of needing the pro-Russian populist Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW) to govern.

The SPD secured 31% in Brandenburg, buoyed by tactical voting against the far-right. However, the surge in support for populist parties continues to threaten political stability in Germany.

The far-right achieved a record 29%, driven by youth votes, while traditional coalition partners underperformed. The BSW, with its anti-NATO and Russia-friendly stance, emerged as a crucial player, complicating SPD's path to governance.

(With inputs from agencies.)