Sahra Wagenknecht calls for AfD inclusion in German state coalitions

BSW founder Sahra Wagenknecht said the exclusion of the AfD – the so‑called “brandmauer” – has failed and advocated for its participation in Thuringia’s coalition and in future “citizen governments” that could involve rotating majorities. She suggested that an independent, broadly accepted minister‑president could lead a coalition that includes the AfD.

Political analysts note that Wagenknecht’s stance could reshape the upcoming state elections in Saxony‑Anhalt and Mecklenburg‑Vorpommern, where the AfD is polling strongly. The BSW, which missed the 2025 Bundestag entry, may become a decisive vote‑giver in these eastern states, potentially prompting indirect cooperation with the far‑right.

In a separate development, Defence Minister Boris Pistorius announced that German navy vessels are heading to the Red Sea to be ready for a possible deployment in the Strait of Hormuz, using the EU mission Eunavfor Aspides as legal cover.