Germans vote in key election as far-right sentiment rises and Trump returns to power

Germans began voting on February 21, 2025, in a crucial election amid a rise in far-right sentiment and the return of Donald Trump as U.S. President. Over 59 million citizens are eligible to vote, with results expected after polls close. Friedrich Merz, leader of the conservative Christian Democratic Union, aims to shift policies rightward to attract voters from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). The AfD is projected to achieve its best results yet, fueled by recent violent incidents linked to asylum seekers. Chancellor Olaf Scholz remains in a caretaker role until a new coalition government is formed. The election follows the collapse of Scholz's coalition in November 2024, driven by internal disputes and economic challenges exacerbated by the Ukraine war.