Germany's conservatives win election as far-right party gains ground on immigration concerns

Germany's conservatives, led by Friedrich Merz, won the national election, strengthening support for Ukraine within the EU. The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) became the second-largest party, reflecting public concern over immigration and security. Merz aims to negotiate with the Social Democrats to form a stable government. He emphasized the need for better border control while rejecting a coalition with AfD, which achieved its best results since World War II. Outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz will remain in a caretaker role until a new government is formed. The election was called early after Scholz's coalition collapsed, amid dissatisfaction with mainstream parties' handling of immigration and economic issues.