German Environment Minister Schneider Rebukes Colleague Over EU Methane Rule

Carsten Schneider Katherina Reiche EU methane regulation coalition dispute Germany

Environment Minister Carsten Schneider (SPD) publicly accused Economy Minister Katherina Reiche (CDU) of breaching the coalition agreement on the EU Methane Regulation, which is designed to cut methane emissions from the energy sector. Schneider said, “Die Geschäftsordnung der Bundesregierung gilt und an die wurde sich in dem Fall nicht gehalten,” and stressed that he “holds himself to coalition decisions” while urging the government to support the EU commission’s stance.

Reiche had reportedly advocated for postponing or suspending the regulation, arguing that Germany’s gas‑import security required a delay and citing the Czech position. She told EU energy ministers, “We need at least a postponement of the methane regulation so that the Federal Republic can safely secure gas imports.”

The clash highlights a growing rift within the red‑black coalition under Chancellor Friedrich Merz, with potential implications for Germany’s climate policy and cabinet cohesion.