Germans vote in national election as parties prepare for coalition talks

Germans are voting in a national parliamentary election on Sunday, expected to shift the political balance to the right. Final results will be available late Sunday or early Monday, prompting parties to begin coalition talks. On February 24, party leaders will analyze results, with potential resignations from losing parties. By February 25, parliamentary groups will meet to re-elect leadership, including the CDU and CSU reaffirming their alliance. The new Bundestag must convene by March 25. Coalition negotiations will follow, with a goal of forming a government by Easter. Until then, the current chancellor and ministers will remain in a caretaker role.