Conservative leader Merz seeks to form new government in Germany after election win

Germany's conservative party, led by Friedrich Merz, won the national election, while the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) became the second-largest party. Chancellor Olaf Scholz conceded defeat, and the CDU/CSU and Social Democrats secured a majority. Merz aims to form a new government by Easter, as Germany has not had a parliamentary majority for nearly six months. Scholz's government will remain in a caretaker role until a new chancellor is elected. U.S. President Donald Trump praised the election outcome, calling it a "great day for Germany." He noted the conservative victory but did not mention specific parties.