Germany's CDU likely to lead new government under Friedrich Merz after snap elections

Germany held snap elections on February 23, resulting in the conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU) likely leading a new government under Friedrich Merz, who secured 28.5% of the vote. This marks a shift from the previous three-party coalition. The Social Democratic Party (SPD) suffered significant losses, coming in third with 16.4%, while the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) gained support but is not expected to join the new coalition. The CDU and SPD may form a stable two-party government. Merz faces challenges including immigration, economic revival, and redefining Germany's role in NATO amid changing U.S. relations. He aims to strengthen ties with European partners and address concerns over investments in China.