Friedrich Merz, Germany's likely next head of government, is already trying to shape foreign policy. He is especially concerned about Germany's ailing relationships with France and Poland.

The victory of the Christian Democratic leader in the February 23 German parliamentary elections was met with relief by France, Poland and other members that support a bolder role for the European Union in tackling security and economic challenges.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk discussed Russia's war in Ukraine and European security with Friedrich Merz, the German politician expected to replace Olaf Scholz as chancellor, during a phone call on Thursday,

OP-ED. Germany doubts itself more than ever, writes diplomat Jérémie Gallon. But it would be a big mistake to underestimate its capacity for reinvention.

The conservatives’ expected victory comes despite a historically strong showing by the far-right Alternative for Germany, or AfD.

Exit polls suggest that Friedrich Merz, the candidate for the conservative Christian Democrats who has vowed to bring stronger leadership in Europe, will be Germany’s next leader. The hard-right AfD party was in second place.

Could 23 February 2025 become known as Europe’s Independence Day? It might as well be if the winner of Germany’s election, Friedrich Merz, has his way. It was striking that Merz, the quintessential German Atlanticist

Friedrich Merz is on the precipice of becoming Germany’s next chancellor. If successful, his conservatism and quest for new allies to secure Europe’s nuclear deterrent could create a “two-speed Europe

Merz aims to shift Europe away from US dependence, but rising far-right pressure and geopolitical tensions could complicate his path.

The CDU advocates for stronger law enforcement measures, including harsher punishments. Read more at straitstimes.com.

After two torturous months of campaigning, the wait is over. Friedrich Merz, leader of the conservative CDU party, is on track to win Germany’s federal election. According to the official exit

But party leader Friedrich Merz has left the door open to reform ... ties with the U.S. and renewed cooperation with France and Poland. It backs Ukraine with diplomatic, financial, humanitarian ...