Germany prepares for pivotal election that will shape Europe's response to U.S. administration

Germany is set to vote for a new parliament on Sunday, which will influence the country's direction for the next four years. This election comes amid a changing U.S. administration and ongoing challenges 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. The election is crucial as Germany's new government will play a key role in addressing economic issues and migration. The current coalition collapsed in November, prompting this early election. A new government is expected to be formed by mid-April.