Germany's conservatives secure historic election win as far-right AfD rises to second place

Germany's conservatives, led by Friedrich Merz, won a historic election, securing 28.5% of the vote. The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party surged to second place with 20.8%, marking its best performance since its formation in 2013. Chancellor Olaf Scholz's Social Democratic Party (SPD) fell to third place with 16.4%, their worst result since World War II. Scholz is expected to be ousted from his position following the election. Merz will need to form a coalition government, as he did not achieve a majority. He has ruled out including the AfD in any coalition due to their controversial views, a stance supported by other parties.