CDU leader Friedrich Merz calls for European independence from US after election win

Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany's Christian Democrats (CDU), aims for Europe to achieve "real independence" from the US after his party won 28.5% of the vote in the federal election. The CDU is expected to form a coalition with the Social Democrats (SPD). The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) gained 20.8% of the vote, marking its highest support since World War II. Most parties have ruled out a coalition with the AfD, which has raised concerns about its influence in parliament. Merz has emphasized the need for Europe to unify on trade and immigration policies. He also invited Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to visit Germany, despite ongoing legal issues surrounding Netanyahu.