Friedrich Merz Leads Conservatives to Victory in Germany; Far-Right Gains Ground/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Friedrich Merz’s conservative bloc won Germany’s national election, pledging stronger support for Ukraine and European unity. The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) surged to second place, marking its best result ever and raising concerns about rising extremism. Coalition talks loom as Germany seeks economic revival and geopolitical stability.
Germany Election Results Quick Looks
- Election outcome: Conservatives led by Friedrich Merz secure victory; AfD surges to second place
- AfD’s rise: Far-right party achieves best result since WWII but remains isolated politically
- Mainstream fallout: Olaf Scholz’s Social Democrats suffer heavy losses after coalition collapse
- Parliament seats: Christian Democrats (208), AfD (152), SPD (120), Greens (85), Left (64)
- Coalition prospects: Merz aims to form a government by Easter, excluding any deal with AfD
- Key issues: Economy, migration, and Europe’s stance against Russia and U.S. pressures
- Market reaction: German stocks rise on hopes for stable, fiscally conservative leadership
- European implications: Germany to remain a strong supporter of Ukraine and EU unity
Friedrich Merz Leads Conservatives to Victory in Germany; Far-Right Gains Ground
Deep Look
BERLIN (AP) — Germany’s conservatives, led by Friedrich Merz, emerged victorious in Sunday’s national election, signaling a shift toward economic reform and stronger European leadership. Meanwhile, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) surged to a historic second place, reflecting growing public dissatisfaction with immigration policies and economic stagnation.
Merz, poised to become Germany’s next chancellor, emphasized unity in Europe and unwavering support for Ukraine amid ongoing Russian aggression.
“Europe stands unwaveringly by Ukraine’s side,” Merz posted on X. Marking the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, he added, “We must put Ukraine in a position of strength.” His remarks subtly rebuked the Trump administration’s exclusion of Ukraine from recent negotiations with Russia.
The election—held seven months early following the collapse of Olaf Scholz’s coalition—centered on economic concerns, rising migration, and Germany’s geopolitical role. Despite efforts to rally support, Scholz’s Social Democrats (SPD) suffered a significant blow, securing just 120 seats in the Bundestag, down from 152.
Merz’s Christian Democrats claimed 208 seats in the 630-seat legislature, positioning the party as the dominant force. The far-right AfD, riding on anti-immigration sentiment and dissatisfaction with mainstream politics, secured 152 seats—its strongest showing to date.
“We are proud of what we’ve achieved,” said AfD co-chair Alice Weidel, vowing to build on the momentum for future elections.
However, AfD remains isolated. All major parties, including Merz’s bloc, refuse to form coalitions with the party due to concerns over right-wing extremism. Germany’s domestic intelligence agency monitors AfD, particularly in eastern regions where its branches are labeled “proven right-wing extremist” groups.
Coalition Challenges Ahead
Merz now faces the complex task of forming a coalition government. He has ruled out partnering with AfD but hinted at working with the SPD or the Greens to secure a governing majority.
“The world isn’t waiting for us,” Merz told supporters. “Germany needs a functioning government, and we aim to form one by Easter.”
While the pro-business Free Democrats failed to clear the 5% electoral threshold, the Greens secured 85 seats and could play a pivotal role in coalition negotiations. The Left party, with 64 seats, lags behind its rivals.
Economic Reform and European Leadership
Economic revival was central to Merz’s campaign, which resonated with voters frustrated by sluggish growth and policy gridlock. German markets responded positively to the election outcome, with major stock indexes climbing Monday morning. Analysts point to investor optimism over a fiscally conservative government that could address Germany’s economic woes.
Beyond domestic issues, Merz underscored the importance of a unified Europe amid geopolitical pressures.
“We face challenges not just from Russia, but also from the United States,” he said, referencing recent U.S. interventions in German politics. Vice President JD Vance and entrepreneur Elon Musk voiced support for AfD, drawing criticism from German leaders. “Such interference is unacceptable,” Merz added.
Germany’s stance on Ukraine remains a top priority. As Europe’s largest economy and NATO ally, Germany is vital to Western support for Kyiv. Under Scholz, Germany became Ukraine’s second-largest arms supplier after the U.S., though Merz has pledged faster and more robust aid.
AfD’s Rising Influence and Political Divide
AfD’s success reflects deepening divisions in German society. Concerns over high migration levels, crime, and dissatisfaction with pandemic management fueled the party’s rise.
“We are becoming Germany’s main opposition force,” AfD co-leader Tino Chrupalla declared. Despite voter gains, AfD’s extremist ties and inflammatory rhetoric keep it politically isolated.
“This election underscores the growing polarization in German politics,” said political scientist Ulrike Franke. “Mainstream parties must address the root causes of AfD’s appeal.”
What’s Next?
Merz’s immediate focus is coalition-building. A partnership with the SPD and Greens is the most likely path, though negotiations could be protracted.
“Few partners, not many,” Merz stressed, seeking to avoid unwieldy alliances.
With Europe facing volatile times—from Ukraine’s war to U.S. foreign policy shifts—Germany’s leadership transition is under global scrutiny.
Merz acknowledged the weight of responsibility. “I know the scale of the task ahead,” he said. “We must act decisively and swiftly.”
As Germany looks to the future, voters have delivered a clear message: they seek change, stability, and renewed economic strength. Whether Merz can deliver remains to be seen.
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