World Leaders React to Friedrich Merz’s German Election Victory…

Friedrich Merz, leader of the CDU, won the German elections, prompting varied reactions from global leaders. While many congratulated him, others focused on the AfD’s significant gain of 20.8 percent of the vote. Merz now faces challenges in forming a coalition and addressing the rise of far-right politics.

The recent election victory of Friedrich Merz, leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), has elicited a spectrum of reactions worldwide. While many global leaders expressed congratulations, others highlighted the significant performance of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), which secured its highest electoral support at 20.8 percent, finishing in second place. This unexpected rise in far-right influence is a concerning development in German politics.

As Mr. Merz prepares to take on the role of chancellor, he faces the challenge of forming a coalition government. His immediate tasks will involve revitalizing Germany’s economy and navigating a complex international landscape amid shifting geopolitical dynamics. The responses from different leaders illustrate varied perspectives regarding this election outcome.

European Council President Antonio Costa noted his eagerness to collaborate with Merz to foster a prosperous and independent Europe during uncertain times. Kaja Kallas, EU High Representative, emphasized the urgency of forming a new government, stressing the need for Germany’s prompt participation in decisive European matters.

In the United States, former President Donald Trump celebrated Merz’s success, attributing it to a collective fatigue among the German populace with ineffective policies on energy and immigration. He expressed optimism for future victories as well.

Russia exhibited a restrained reaction through spokesman Dmitry Peskov, who acknowledged a cautious wait-and-see approach regarding potential advancements in German-Russian relations under the new leadership.

French President Emmanuel Macron reached out to Merz, emphasizing cooperation towards a stronger European Union amidst the current global uncertainties. Similarly, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his eagerness to strengthen UK-German ties under the new administration.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy interpreted the election results as a decisive choice by German voters and reaffirmed Ukraine’s readiness to collaborate for European stability and defense. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte highlighted the importance of Merz’s leadership in enhancing shared security through increased defense spending.

In Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu congratulated the CDU-CSU coalition, expressing anticipation for enhanced bilateral relations. However, not all world leaders echoed congratulations; Hungary’s Viktor Orban acknowledged the AfD’s rise and hailed the shift as a call for change.

Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini remarked on the widespread embrace of change in Germany, highlighting AfD’s significant electoral gains. In Austria, the leader of the Freedom Party voiced concerns over the weakened resistance to the AfD’s ideology. Jewish community leaders have raised alarms over the electoral success of the far-right, reflecting deep apprehension regarding the implications for democracy and societal unity in Germany.

Friedrich Merz’s electoral victory signals a pivotal moment in German politics, marked by a resurgence of right-wing sentiments exemplified by the AfD’s strong performance. Global leaders’ reactions underscore the challenges ahead for Merz, particularly in coalition-building and addressing the surge in far-right ideology. The widespread international concern regarding the AfD’s success highlights the delicate balance of political power in Germany and its potential ramifications for Europe.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com