Disagreements between Macron and Merz have intensified over Putin

Disagreements between Macron and Merz have escalated due to the proposal by the head of the Fifth Republic to resume dialogue with Russian leader Putin. This is reported by Der Spiegel.

The article states that it seems the French leader's move was not coordinated with Merz. The Chancellor has no choice but to demonstratively ignore this as much as possible if he wants to avoid an open quarrel with France.

Der Spiegel also notes that the disagreements between the German and French leaders are becoming difficult to mask. Their direct confrontation no longer seems impossible.