Moderates and Sweden Democrats agree on coalition government plans

Swedish public broadcaster SVT reports that Moderate Party leader Ulf Kristersson has, for the first time, confirmed his party’s willingness to form a government with the Sweden Democrats (SD), following SD leader Jimmie Åkesson’s endorsement of Kristersson as his candidate for prime minister.

The announcement marks a shift in the political landscape, though analysts note that Åkesson’s own chances of becoming prime minister were effectively non-existent. While the agreement strengthens Kristersson’s position, it carries risks for the Moderates, particularly among SD’s voter base.

According to SVT’s political commentator Elisabeth Marmorstein, the move is strategically important for Kristersson but could prove difficult for SD supporters to accept. The decision follows prolonged negotiations between the two parties on potential cooperation in a future government.