Germany's Political Puzzles: Merz's Path to Chancellorship Amidst AfD Surge

Germany's conservatives, led by Friedrich Merz, won the election but face complex coalition talks. The far-right AfD secured second place with its best result. Merz aims to stabilize Germany amidst economic challenges, while Trump celebrates their victory, criticizing past energy and immigration policies.

Germany's recent national election saw the conservative CDU/CSU bloc emerge victoriously under the leadership of Friedrich Merz, albeit with the challenge of forming a stable coalition government. The fractured vote resulted in the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) achieving its strongest performance yet, coming in second place.

Merz, set to become chancellor, faces the task of consolidating support amidst Germany's economic struggles and societal divisions over immigration. His leadership comes as a contrast to former Chancellor Angela Merkel's more moderate approach, promising a return to Germany's prominence in Europe.

While U.S. President Donald Trump hailed the conservative victory, the path forward remains uncertain as Merz contemplates the dynamics of a potentially cumbersome three-party coalition, aiming to prevent the AfD's influence from growing further.

(With inputs from agencies.)