'MERZ MUST GO!' Munich Protesters Rally Against Ukraine Support and Defence Spending

Hundreds of demonstrators marched through Munich on Friday demanding Chancellor Friedrich Merz's resignation, criticising his government's economic policies, support for Ukraine and plans to increase defence spending. Protesters carrying German flags and banners including "Merz must go" and "Never again war with Russia" gathered under police escort before heading toward Odeonsplatz. Several demonstrators said they feared Germany was being drawn deeper into the war in Ukraine and called for greater diplomatic efforts to end the conflict. The rally comes as Merz's government plans to raise core defence spending to 3.5% of GDP by 2029 and build what he has described as Europe's strongest conventional army. A Forsa survey cited in the report found 85% of respondents dissatisfied with Merz's work, compared with 13% who were satisfied. Critics argue that increased military spending should instead be directed toward healthcare, education, infrastructure and reducing energy costs. #merz #friedrichmerz #germany #munich #munichprotest #germanyprotest #ukraine #ukrainewar #russiaukrainewar #germanpolitics #germanynews #merzmustgo #defencespending #germanymilitary #europe #europeanpolitics #nato #russia #geopolitics #breakingnews In this Times Now World News report, we break down the this topic: Stay connected with Times Now World for real-time global news and analysis: Read full coverage: https://www.timesnownews.com/world Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/timesnow.world Follow us on X: https://x.com/TimesNow_World #timesnowworld #worldnews #breakingnews