Opposition parties Pro and Volt team up to force budget deal

Opposition parties Pro and Volt have united to pressure the Dutch cabinet into making further concessions on social security during budget negotiations. Prime Minister Rob Jetten revealed that the government has prepared a new offer addressing the opposition parties' concerns regarding welfare, the cost of living, and the "Box 3" asset tax mechanism.

With Pro leader Jesse Klaver and Volt leader Laurens Dassen emphasizing their commitment to progressive cooperation and a sustainable future, the coalition parties require the support of Pro and Volt to obtain a solid majority in both the lower and upper houses of parliament. However, the right-wing liberal VVD, led by Finance Minister Eelco Heinen, is hesitant to concede too much, fearing the loss of voters to other parties.

Despite the opposition's persistence, the prime minister insists that excluding any side from the talks would be detrimental to the country. Klaver and Dassen have called for comprehensive welfare cuts, while JA21 and the SGP advocate for even larger reductions. Talks between Jetten, Heinen, Pro, Volt, and other parties aim to reach a budget agreement before the end of the month, with further discussions to be held on Saturday.