The CDU/CSU alliance emerged victorious in the recent German elections, capturing 28.5% of the vote. Their triumph marks a significant political shift in the country, as the Social Democrats (SPD) faced their worst electoral outcome since World War II, garnering only 16.4% of the vote. The Greens also experienced a decline, dropping three percentage points to 11.6%. In a surprising turn, the far-right AfD nearly doubled its vote share, signaling a move towards more conservative politics in Germany.
Friedrich Merz, leader of the CDU/CSU, announced plans for a new government by Easter, with a focus on a stringent migration policy as the main condition for any coalition agreement. Coalition discussions are slated to start officially on March 6, considering the carnival season and a state election in Hamburg. The CDU/CSU hopes to form a "grand coalition" with the SPD, avoiding the complexities of a three-way coalition. Merz aims to convince Lars Klingbeil, head of the SPD, to embrace changes in migration politics.
The election results have served as a poignant reminder of Germany's memory culture. The CDU/CSU's victory is seen as a sobering outcome for a nation that has long prided itself on this aspect of its identity. Alice Weidel of the AfD cautioned that the CDU/CSU might face challenges explaining their collaboration with the SPD to their electorate.
Merz has emphasized Europe's need for independence and strength, especially amidst global uncertainties. He remarked:
“Strengthen Europe as quickly as possible, so that we achieve independence from the US, step by step.” – Friedrich Merz
He further criticized recent international dynamics, stating:
“I never thought that I would ever need to say something like that, on television, but after the latest statements made by Donald Trump last week, it is clear, that the Americans – at any case these Americans, this administration – mostly don’t care about the fate of Europe one way or another.” – Friedrich Merz
“Interventions from Washington were no less drastic, dramatic, and ultimately no less brazen, than the interventions that we have seen from Moscow.” – Friedrich Merz
Germany remains Europe's second-largest supplier of military aid to Kyiv after the United States. Merz affirmed Europe's solidarity with Ukraine and outlined Germany's commitment to enhancing European unity and defense.
French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his eagerness to collaborate with Germany's new government:
“I look forward to working with the new government to deepen our already strong relationship, enhance our joint security and deliver growth for both our countries.” – Emmanuel Macron
“We are more determined than ever to achieve great things together for France and Germany and work towards a strong and sovereign Europe. In this time of uncertainty, we are united to face the major challenges of the world and our continent.” – Emmanuel Macron
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy echoed similar sentiments about Europe's future:
“Europe must be able to defend itself, develop its industries, and achieve the necessary results. Europe needs shared successes, and those successes will bring even greater unity to Europe.” – Volodymyr Zelenskyy
“Now more than ever, we must put Ukraine in a position of strength. For a just peace, the attacked country must be part of peace negotiations,” – Volodymyr Zelenskyy
António Costa of Portugal emphasized Europe's resilience:
“I look forward to working closely with him to make Europe stronger, more prosperous and more autonomous. These might be challenging times. But I know that, just like in the past, the European Union will deliver and come out stronger.” – António Costa
Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump commented on the election results:
“Much like the USA, the people of Germany got tired of the no-common-sense agenda, especially on energy and immigration… This is a great day for Germany and for the United States of America under the leadership of a gentleman named Donald J Trump.” – Donald Trump
Political analyst Christoph Hickmann highlighted the challenges facing Chancellor Merz:
“Chancellor Merz’s task will be to restore trust in the political centre and more: in the system and in the superiority of liberal democracy over authoritarian approaches. No chancellor has faced such a huge challenge since reunification.” – Christoph Hickmann