Germany's EVG rail union plans strikes after wage talks collapse

(Reuters) -Germany's EVG rail workers union said on Thursday it is preparing a strike ballot for further action after wage talks with German rail operator Deutsche Bahn collapsed.

The EVG had on Wednesday rejected the latest offer of a salary increase of up to 12%, saying it was too low, came too late and its term of 27 months was too long.

"We have shown numerous lines of compromise in the difficult negotiations with Deutsche Bahn and expected something similar from the employer," EVG chairman Martin Burkert said on Thursday.

"It is clear that we will not be able to push through our demand in full, but we want to come close," he added.

The union has staged strikes that caused widespread disruption this year, including nationwide action in April which paralysed much of the network. It wants a 12% wage increase, or at least an additional 650 euros per month over 12 months.

Deutsche Bahn said the escalation was "absolutely unnecessary" and the two sides had been "very close to a deal".

The EVG is negotiating on behalf of 230,000 workers, including 180,000 at Deutsche Bahn.

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(Reporting by Anna Mackenzie and Klaus Lauer, Writing by Friederike Heine, Editing by Madeline Chambers)