"I'm no wimp": Wadephul's self-destruction - German Foreign Minister’s Syria Remarks Trigger Political Backlash and Party Doubts
Federal Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul sparked a political storm with his remarks at a recent meeting, leading to a stern defence from Chancellor Friedrich Merz and disapproval from Chancellor Olaf Scholz. His comments have left many in the CDU and CSU questioning his position.
Wadephul began his speech sounding conciliatory but later escalated his remarks, drawing parallels between Syria's current situation and post-World War II Germany, with some claiming he said it was worse than Nazi Germany in ruins. His comments about 'apocalyptic destruction' in Syria and doubts about deportations to Syria have been widely condemned.
The foreign minister's speech was seen as self-sabotage, reminiscent of former Green family minister Anne Spiegel's emotional statement that led to her resignation. Leading conservatives have sharply rebuked Wadephul, with many criticising his remarks as inappropriate, disrespectful, and inexplicable. Following his comments, Wadephul's standing within the party has been severely damaged, and his ability to advocate for deportations to Syria has been called into question. The CDU now views him as a foreign minister on probation, while the CSU has long had him in their sights.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz defended Wadephul at the CDU/CSU parliamentary group meeting, but Chancellor Olaf Scholz's stony expression indicated his disapproval of the foreign minister's remarks. Wadephul's future in his role remains uncertain as the political fallout from his comments continues.
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