Germany prepares for crucial parliamentary elections to shape future government

Germany will hold parliamentary elections on Sunday, determining the next government for the next four years. This election is crucial for shaping Europe's response to the new U.S. administration and ongoing issues in Ukraine. Four main candidates are competing: incumbent Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Friedrich Merz from the Christian Democratic Union, Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck from the Greens, and Alice Weidel from the far-right AfD. Polls indicate Merz's party is leading, but coalition negotiations will be necessary. Over 59 million people are eligible to vote. The election is taking place earlier than planned due to the collapse of Scholz's coalition in November. The new government will need to address economic challenges and migration issues.