Statements on Election Defeat and AfD Victory in Germany
The historic victory of the far-right AfD in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany, is regarded as a severe defeat for the CDU and has led to calls for comprehensive reforms.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that the shock victory achieved by the far-right AfD in the Saxony-Anhalt state elections cannot be ignored. Making statements at the CDU headquarters in Berlin, Merz acknowledged that this result is the most severe election defeat the party has experienced in years.
Election Results and Assessments
Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that the emerging picture in the Saxony-Anhalt state is an election result that cannot be simply brushed aside. He pointed out that approximately 60 percent of voters cast their ballots for parties questioning democratic institutions.
CDU's Transition to Opposition
Sven Schulze, the incumbent minister-president of Saxony-Anhalt, announced that the CDU no longer holds governing authority in the state and will transition to the opposition. Schulze stated that governing authority now rests with the AfD.
Foreign Policy and Stance on Ukraine
Emphasizing that giving up is not an option, Merz declared that despite high support for pro-Russian parties, they will not deviate a single millimeter from their pro-Ukraine line. European mainstream politicians expressed their concern over the far-right's victory.