**Germany’s CDU Wins Election, Far-Right AfD Emerges as Second-Largest Party**
Germany’s center-right Christian Democratic Union (CDU) is set to return to power with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) emerging as the second-largest party. According to exit polls on February 23, the CDU won 28.8% of the vote.
**Merz to Become Chancellor**
The CDU’s leader, Friedrich Merz, is expected to become Germany’s next chancellor. He expressed concerns about NATO’s future and questioned whether the alliance would remain intact by the June summit. Merz also criticized Donald Trump‘s recent statements on Ukraine, calling them “shocking” and aligned with Russian narratives.
**AfD Secures 20.2% of the Vote**
The AfD secured an unprecedented 20.2% of the vote, making it the second-largest party in Germany. This result is a significant gain for the far-right party, which has been considered extremist.
**Concerns Over Immigration and Economic Issues**
The snap election was driven by concerns over immigration, economic issues, and Trump’s return to the U.S. presidency. Outside the CDU headquarters, a small group of demonstrators protested against Merz’s stance on immigration.
**Merz Calls for Swift Coalition Talks**
Declaring victory, Merz addressed supporters in central Berlin, saying “Let’s get the party started,” signaling his intent to begin coalition talks swiftly.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com