While the CDU and SPD defended the fuel discount, which reduces mineral oil tax by 17 cents per liter for two months starting May 1, opposition parties, including the Greens and the Left, criticized it as ineffective and proposed a windfall tax on oil companies instead. The CDU’s leadership expressed concerns that the relief may need to be extended if fuel prices remain high, while the AfD called for increased commuter allowances and a reduction in the CO₂ tax. The proposed tax cuts are expected to result in a revenue loss of 1.6 billion euros.