Friedrich Merz positions himself as Germany's next chancellor with plans for a tougher foreign policy

Friedrich Merz, leader of the conservative party, is poised to become Germany's next chancellor after elections on Sunday. Polls show his party leading, signaling a shift in Germany's political landscape. Merz, a businessman with no prior ministerial experience, aims for a foreign policy that aligns more closely with U.S. interests under President Trump. He has criticized recent U.S. comments that appear to favor Russia. The upcoming leadership change may lead to a more assertive German stance on defense and international relations. Merz's direct approach could reshape Germany's role in Europe amid evolving U.S. dynamics.