Friedrich Merz, a prominent candidate for Chancellor of Germany, criticized U.S. Vice President JD Vance for supporting the far-right AfD party ahead of the upcoming elections. Merz stated that his party will not negotiate with the AfD, emphasizing the importance of respecting Germany’s political autonomy. Polls suggest the CDU/CSU leads but may need to form a coalition after the election.
Friedrich Merz, the leading candidate for Chancellor of Germany, has voiced strong criticism toward U.S. Vice President JD Vance for endorsing the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in anticipation of Germany’s parliamentary elections on February 23. During a television debate, Merz expressed his commitment that his Christian Democratic Union (CDU/CSU) party would not engage in coalition talks with the AfD.
Merz stated emphatically, “I will not let US Vice President tell me who I have to talk to here in Germany,” highlighting his respect for the democratic process and the outcomes of elections, including the recent U.S. elections. His remarks aimed to assert Germany’s sovereignty in political matters, expecting reciprocal acknowledgment from the U.S. administration.
JD Vance drew criticism after his speech at the Munich Security Conference, where he rebuked European nations for excluding right-wing populist parties from the political discourse. His meeting with AfD co-chair Alice Weidel further established his support for the party, contradicting diplomatic norms as the organizers did not invite Weidel due to the AfD’s controversial stance.
Current polling indicates that Merz’s CDU/CSU alliance is leading with 30%, though it is unlikely to achieve a majority. Potential coalition partners include the center-left Social Democratic Party (SPD) and the Greens, with the SPD at 16% and the Greens at 14%. The AfD, projected to become the second largest party with 20%, remains excluded from coalition discussions with other major parties.
In conclusion, Friedrich Merz’s denunciation of U.S. Vice President JD Vance’s interference in German electoral politics underscores the complexities of international relations and domestic political sovereignty. With elections approaching, the dynamics between the CDU/CSU, SPD, Greens, and the far-right AfD highlight the urgent task of coalition-building in an increasingly polarized landscape. Merz’s firm stance against cooperation with the AfD reflects a broader commitment to preserving democratic values in Germany.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
