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The 2021 elections saw a coalition government that included the SPD, the Greens, and the Free Democrats (FDP). This so-called "traffic light coalition" was an unconventional alignment as the FDP, traditionally aligned with center-right politics, joined forces with more left-leaning parties. Despite their differences, the parties aimed to promote progressive policies, particularly in energy transition and social justice.
However, the coalition's stability was soon tested by external pressures, particularly stemming from Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. This geopolitical upheaval demanded a rethinking of Germany's defense and energy strategies, pushing the government to expand defense spending and sever ties with Russian energy sources.