Former Chancellor Angela Merkel publicly criticized CDU party leader Friedrich Merz for collaborating with the far-right AfD to pass a stricter migration motion. This move broke a previous pledge by Merz not to seek parliamentary majorities with AfD support, a decision Merkel deemed wrong and a setback for national political responsibility. Merkel’s condemnation, a rare public intervention, is considered potentially damaging to Merz’s standing within the CDU and could significantly impact the upcoming election. The controversial vote marks the first time the Bundestag passed a measure with AfD votes, highlighting growing divisions within the German political landscape.
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A non-binding motion for stricter German border and asylum rules passed with the support of the far-right AfD, fracturing the established political consensus. This controversial vote, defended by CDU leader Friedrich Merz as necessary, sparked intense debate and condemnation from Chancellor Scholz, who called it an “unforgivable mistake”. Merz plans to introduce binding legislation with potential AfD backing, despite concerns about its legality and timing before the upcoming election. The incident highlights the escalating political tensions surrounding immigration in Germany.
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To achieve peace in Ukraine, CDU/CSU leader Friedrich Merz prioritized ending Russia’s aggression as a top strategic goal. This commitment includes unwavering support for Ukraine’s victory, defined as regaining its full territorial integrity under a sovereign, democratically legitimate government. Merz affirmed Ukraine’s right to choose its alliances, while echoing Chancellor Scholz’s stance on Germany’s non-participation in the conflict. Although he avoided commenting on a specific aid package, his position aligns with the CDU/CSU’s platform of supporting Ukraine and strengthening sanctions against Russia.
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Amidst discussions of a potential Ukraine ceasefire, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated Germany’s openness to contributing troops to a subsequent European peacekeeping mission. This follows similar considerations by the U.K. and France, who are also exploring troop deployments. While Germany’s role would be significant given its NATO standing, the deployment is contingent upon future discussions and has elicited varied opinions among German politicians, including conditions such as Russian consent. Ukraine’s acceptance hinges on a clear NATO membership timeline.
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A YouGov poll reveals widespread disapproval of Elon Musk’s political commentary in the UK and Germany. Majorities in both countries deem his interventions unacceptable and believe he lacks understanding of their respective political landscapes. Only a small percentage view his relationship with their governments as important, with most preferring to ignore him. His negative reception is most pronounced outside of support bases for the AfD in Germany and Reform UK in Britain.
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German Chancellor Olaf Scholz condemned Elon Musk’s support for far-right parties across Europe, deeming it unacceptable and a threat to democratic development. While acknowledging Musk’s right to free speech, Scholz specifically criticized Musk’s partisanship toward the extreme right, citing instances such as promoting the AfD in Germany. Separately, Scholz expressed confidence that US aid to Ukraine would continue despite Donald Trump’s return to the presidency. This confidence stems from his direct communication with Trump and ongoing diplomatic dialogue between the US and Germany.
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The AfD party convention will finalize its campaign manifesto, featuring hardline immigration stances and a proposed German exit from the euro, currently polling at approximately 20% support. Despite receiving endorsements like that of Elon Musk, AfD’s lead candidate, Alice Weidel, faces an insurmountable barrier to power, with all major parties rejecting coalition possibilities. Friedrich Merz of the CDU, the frontrunner in polls, is the most likely next Chancellor.
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Elon Musk, via his X account, launched a personal attack against German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, calling him an “anti-democratic tyrant,” a comment seemingly spurred by Steinmeier’s criticism of foreign interference in upcoming elections. This latest insult follows previous attacks on Chancellor Olaf Scholz and promotion of the AfD party, including planned online discussions with AfD leader Alice Weidel. Musk’s actions are causing significant controversy in German politics as the country approaches elections. The German government has declined to comment on Musk’s remarks.
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Elon Musk’s op-ed in Germany’s *Welt am Sonntag* supporting the far-right AfD party sparked controversy, resulting in the opinion editor’s resignation. Musk’s commentary, his second endorsement of the AfD this month, characterized the party as Germany’s last hope for economic prosperity and cultural integrity. This action fueled a debate regarding free speech in German media, with internal criticism published alongside Musk’s piece. Despite the controversy, the *Welt* group’s leadership affirmed its commitment to free expression as a cornerstone of journalism.
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John Q. Hosedrinker