Friedrich Merz, the likely next Chancellor of Germany, rejected overtures from President Trump, calling for independence from the U.S. and accusing them of election interference. Despite aligning more closely with the right-wing AfD on certain issues, Merz plans to form a government with the ousted Social Democrats and potentially the far-left Greens.
Key Points
Merz rejects overtures from Trump and seeks independence from the U.S.
Plans to form government with Social Democrats and potentially Greens despite aligning more closely with AfD on certain issues
Accusations of election interference by Trump administration and Elon Musk
Pros
Merz prioritizes strengthening Europe and achieving independence from the U.S.
Merz rejects right-wing alliance with AfD in favor of left-wing coalition
Merz plans to continue Germany's restrictive speech laws
Cons
Accusations of election interference by the Trump administration