German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is confronting a severe political crisis within his own party, the CDU, following a contentious decision to replace a popular minister.
The reshuffle has triggered significant internal dissent, undermining the chancellor's authority at a critical juncture for his government.
Compounding the domestic turmoil, Merz's personal approval rating has collapsed to just 13 percent.
This sharp decline in public confidence comes as the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party is on track for success in upcoming state elections, signaling a potential shift in the country's political landscape that could further destabilize the current coalition.
The political instability in Berlin adds to existing pressures on the German government, which is already grappling with escalating labor unrest in the public sector.
Strikes have spread beyond initial flashpoints, disrupting operations and intensifying the political burden on Chancellor Merz as he attempts to consolidate his position.