Friedrich Merz advocates for true independence from the U.S.

 

"People Tired Of...": Trump Applauds Conservative Surge in German Elections

Friedrich Merz has pledged to establish Europe's "true independence" from the United States as he works to assemble a new government.

Germany’s conservative bloc secured victory in the national elections, positioning Friedrich Merz as the country's next chancellor, according to exit polls released on Sunday. This outcome signifies a major shift in Germany's political dynamics, with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party achieving unprecedented gains and securing second place. The AfD received backing from notable U.S. figures, including tech billionaire Elon Musk, a close ally of President Donald Trump.

U.S. President Trump welcomed the election results, interpreting them as a rejection of the centre-left government led by Olaf Scholz, which he described as "devoid of common sense."

"Just like in America, the people of Germany have had enough of the senseless policies, particularly on energy and immigration, that have dominated for years. This is a tremendous victory for Germany," Trump posted on Truth Social.

Friedrich Merz Advocates for "True Independence" from the U.S.

Meanwhile, 69-year-old Merz reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring Europe attains "true independence" from the United States as he navigates the complex process of forming a new government. Despite Trump’s approval of the election results, Merz did not shy away from criticizing Washington, condemning what he called "outrageous" remarks made by U.S. officials during the campaign, likening them to Russia's interference in European affairs.

"We are experiencing immense pressure from multiple directions, and my foremost priority is fostering unity in Europe. Achieving this is absolutely possible," Merz stated in a discussion with other political leaders.

Previously recognized as a staunch transatlanticist, Merz asserted that Trump's administration has displayed "a clear lack of concern for Europe's well-being." He emphasized that his "top priority is to reinforce Europe's strength swiftly, ensuring step-by-step independence from the U.S." Merz even questioned whether NATO, which has been a cornerstone of European security for decades, would remain "as it is today" in the upcoming summit.

Having never held public office before, Merz is set to take the reins as Germany's chancellor at a time when Europe's largest economy is facing serious economic challenges, internal divisions over migration, and security threats posed by an increasingly assertive Russia and China.

Challenging Coalition Negotiations Await

Despite securing the lead, Merz is expected to face tough and protracted coalition talks, as the far-right AfD surged into second place following the collapse of Scholz’s unpopular three-party coalition. Mainstream parties remain adamant about not partnering with the AfD, given its controversial standing in a nation still grappling with the historical implications of far-right ideologies.

Merz enters these coalition negotiations without a particularly strong bargaining position. Although his CDU/CSU bloc emerged as the largest political force, its electoral performance remains among the weakest in post-war Germany. It remains uncertain whether Merz will require one or two coalition partners to secure a governing majority, with the distribution of seats among smaller parties yet to be determined.

A three-way coalition could prove cumbersome, potentially hindering Germany’s ability to take decisive leadership on key issues.

Rise of the Far-Right

Amidst a tense campaign season marred by violent incidents, including attacks allegedly involving individuals of migrant backgrounds, the CDU/CSU secured 28.5% of the vote, with the AfD close behind at 20.5%, according to a projection by ZDF broadcaster late Sunday.

The AfD, poised to double its previous electoral performance, celebrated the outcome as a stepping stone for greater political influence. "We extend our hand to form a government," AfD leader Alice Weidel told supporters, adding, "Next time, we will take the lead."

Decline of the Centre-Left

The Social Democratic Party (SPD), led by Chancellor Scholz, suffered a historic defeat, registering just 16.5% of the vote—their worst performance since World War II. Scholz acknowledged the setback, calling it a "bitter" result, while projections showed the Greens garnering 11.8%.

Germany's far-left Die Linke party experienced a surge in support, particularly among younger voters, securing 8.7% of the vote. Meanwhile, the pro-market Free Democrats (FDP) and the newly formed Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW) hovered around the critical 5% threshold required to enter parliament.

Voter participation stood at 83%, the highest level recorded since Germany's reunification in 1990, with male voters leaning towards the right while female voters displayed stronger backing for leftist parties.