German CDU prepares for coalition talks with SPD after election win

The Christian Democratic Union (CDU) won the recent German election with 28.6% of the vote, followed by the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) at 20.8%. The Social Democrats (SPD) and Greens received 16.4% and 11.6%, respectively. CDU leader Friedrich Merz is seeking a coalition with the SPD, ruling out an alliance with the AfD. Coalition talks will begin as parties discuss potential partnerships and compromises. The CDU/CSU bloc did not secure a majority, prompting the need for coalition negotiations. The Free Democrats (FDP) failed to enter parliament, receiving only 4.3% of the vote.