AfD win weakens Germany’s political position amid EU and defense concerns
Germany’s far-right AfD victory in weekend state elections nearly doubled its national support versus a 2024 nadir, undermining Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s position. Defense officials warn the Kremlin-friendly stance could gain sway as Germany rearms.
The far-right party’s success is weakening Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s position, even though he is unlikely to lose power. The AfD has nearly doubled its support nationally compared with a 2024 nadir, while Merz’s party is polling a third lower than two years ago. The AfD’s victory in weekend German state elections points to major change for Germany, the continent and the West more broadly. Its more skeptical view of the EU is a concern for the bloc, given Germany is the biggest contributor to its budget.
Defense officials are also worried that a party seen as favorable to the Kremlin could gain more influence in a country that is fast rearming and is the largest single donor to Ukraine.