CDU/CSU Wins; AfD Achieves Historic Second Place

Germany's national election has resulted in a victory for the conservative CDU/CSU bloc led by Friedrich Merz, poised to become the next chancellor. The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) achieved a historic second place, with the CDU/CSU earning roughly 28.5% of the vote and the AfD 20.8%. The election has faced criticism for perceived external interference from the US, particularly support from Donald Trump and Elon Musk for the AfD. Merz has called for European independence from the US and aims to form a coalition to govern Germany, excluding collaboration with the AfD despite their gains. The election outcome reflects widespread frustration with the previous center-left government's policies on energy and immigration. Merz faces the challenge of forming a coalition government by Easter, emphasizing the need for European unity and defense capability enhancement.