Former SPD leader Martin Schulz stated that he does not believe the era of social democracy in Germany is over. Speaking to WDR, he emphasized that the doctrine is not guided by opinion polls from the previous Sunday, but rather by core principles. Chief among these principles, according to Schulz, is the belief that wealth is distributed unfairly-not only in Germany but across Europe and internationally-and that, therefore, wealth must be allocated more justly. He advised his party, and affirmed his own commitment, that they must continue to view justice, respect, and tolerance as the fundamental pillars of their work, believing this approach is what will ultimately rebuild public trust.
While addressing the present day, Schulz conceded that they live in “complicated times”. Regarding energy costs, he asserted that the rising prices at gas pumps are due to the “insane decision” of an American president to attack Iran in a manner that subsequently blocked the Strait of Hormuz. He stressed the necessity of telling the truth to the people, arguing that a certain degree of European sovereignty was required to “defend against this man in the White House and detach ourselves” from his influence-a premise he suggested everyone understood, noting that one simply “has to say it that way”.
