Finance Minister Lindner identifies 5 billion euro gap in draft budget

Finance Minister Lindner has identified a financing gap of 5 billion euros in the 2025 draft budget. This has raised concerns about the debt brake, with experts examining subsidies for Deutsche Bahn and Autobahn GmbH.

The Union is calling for cuts in social benefits, while the SPD criticizes Lindner's approach. Prior to this, the heads of the traffic light coalition had reached a compromise on the budget.

In addition, Lindner has stated his focus on immigration and social policies for the upcoming federal election, aiming to tackle 'irregular migration' and prevent 'free riders'. The FDP also prioritizes tax relief and bureaucracy reduction.

However, the future of FDP's involvement in the government after the election remains uncertain. While the SPD and Greens advocate for tax increases, the CDU's financial policy appears less clear.

The federal election is expected to take place in September 2025.