In Brandenburg, the SPD and the Bündnis Sahra Wagenknecht (BSW) are on the verge of entering formal coalition negotiations, marking a significant political development.
This potential coalition, a first of its kind in Germany, comes after five weeks of exploratory talks following the state elections.
Both parties, led by Minister President Dietmar Woidke and BSW's Robert Crumbach, have expressed optimism about the discussions, despite some challenges.
The coalition is crucial as it represents the only viable majority in the parliament, given the reluctance of other parties to collaborate with the AfD.
BSW leader Sahra Wagenknecht has set specific demands, including a stance on US missile deployment and advocating for a ceasefire in Ukraine.
The outcome of these negotiations could reshape Brandenburg's political landscape, with broader implications for regional politics.