Germany's conservatives criticize US influence after election victory over far-right party

Germany's recent election saw the center-right Christian Democratic Union (CDU) win 28.5% of the vote, while the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) gained a record 20.5%. The ruling Social Democratic Party fell to 15.5%. CDU leader Friedrich Merz criticized alleged U.S. interference in the election, particularly from Elon Musk. He emphasized the need for unity in Europe amid pressures from both the U.S. and Russia. Merz plans to form a coalition government by Easter but ruled out cooperation with the AfD. The election results will be validated by lawmakers on March 15.