German parties reached a deal; a new government forms

Following weeks of negotiations, conservative and center-left parties in Germany have agreed to form a new government. This deal sets the stage for new leadership after a period of political instability in the country. The leader of the Christian Democratic Union, Friedrich Merz, is expected to become Germany's new leader, succeeding Olaf Scholz. The coalition will be presented, followed by membership votes and a party convention approval. The agreement comes after an early election in February. The new government will bring together established parties, despite them having a lackluster election performance and a strong second-place finish for the far-right.