International leaders react to Germany's election results as conservatives win and far-right gains momentum

Germany's opposition conservatives, led by Friedrich Merz, won the national election, positioning him to become the next chancellor. The far-right Alternative for Germany achieved its best-ever result, coming in second. International reactions highlight support for Merz. U.S. President Donald Trump praised the election outcome, while leaders from Greece and the Czech Republic congratulated him and expressed hopes for stronger cooperation in Europe. Austrian far-right leader Herbert Kickl noted a shift in political sentiment, while Italy's Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini emphasized the AfD's gains and called for changes in immigration and environmental policies.