Final Bundestag Debate Highlights Sharp Exchanges Between Scholz and Merz

With less than two weeks until the German federal election, the Bundestag's last session saw intense debate over economic policies, migration, and party alliances.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz criticized Friedrich Merz for alleged cooperation with the AfD in parliamentary votes, framing it as a threat to democratic norms.
Merz attacked Scholz's economic record, citing increased unemployment, business insolvencies, and capital outflows under his leadership.
Scholz defended his administration's handling of crises, including the Ukraine war and inflation, while emphasizing his vision for economic modernization and social equity.
Merz reiterated his party's stance on stricter migration policies and rejected any potential collaboration with the AfD, despite Scholz's accusations.
The debate underscored deep political divides, with both leaders appealing to voters ahead of the February 23 election, where coalition possibilities remain uncertain.