Schulz defends Klingbeil against SPD criticism, urging unity in party row

Former SPD chairman Martin Schulz defends Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil against criticism from within his own party and calls on his party to unity. As Schulz told "Welt am Sonntag", "No one has had a greater track record of success in coalition negotiations than Lars Klingbeil." He stated that Klingbeil is being "put down in a way that is irrational."

Schulz referred to the results of the coalition negotiations with the Union, including investments exceeding 500 billion euros, additional funds for defense, and the easing of the debt brake. The former SPD chancellor candidate said, "Essentially, there should be signs everywhere in the country at the construction sites: Here the Federal Republic is building thanks to Lars Klingbeil."

Critics sharply slammed Schulz's demands that Klingbeil resign the party chairmanship and focus on his duties as Finance Minister and Vice Chancellor. What problem this would solve, they asked-it would create another one. They argued that one of the major mistakes of the SPD was believing that replacing one person would solve the problems.

Looking ahead to the next SPD party conference, Schulz called for a clear decision and support for the government team. He said they must ask themselves whether they will continue to fracture or whether they want to give the government team, led by Lars Klingbeil, a chance to govern successfully. He wishes for a "clear commitment to the successes achieved so far" and their implementation over the coming two years.