Merz accuses AfD of seeking 'ethnic cleansing' after Saxony-Anhalt win

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has accused the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) of seeking "ethnic cleansing" through its "remigration" policy, following the party's strong performance in a state election. He made the remarks during a heated parliamentary debate on Wednesday. Merz argued that the AfD's mass deportation plans would cripple Germany's economy, warning that care homes, hospitals, and restaurants would close without immigrant workers. He also accused the party of breaking campaign promises and of aligning with Russia on security issues. The AfD won nearly 44% of the vote in Saxony-Anhalt, falling short of an absolute majority. The party is currently polling first nationally at 28-29%, ahead of two more state elections this month.