Germany's Conservative Party wins election as far-right AfD secures second place

Germany's Conservative Party, the CDU, has won the recent election with 28.5% of the vote, while the far-right AfD secured 20%, marking a significant rise for the party. Chancellor Olaf Scholz's SPD fell to third place, calling the result a historic defeat. Friedrich Merz, the CDU leader, is expected to become the next chancellor. He aims to restore Germany's leadership in Europe after four years in opposition. Coalition negotiations will be challenging due to the increased presence of AfD members in parliament. The election follows the collapse of Scholz's coalition last November. Public sentiment has shifted regarding migration, complicating future governance. The CDU may form a coalition with the SPD or explore other options, including the Greens and FDP.