Merz and Germany’s New Government Face a Tricky Challenge: an AfD-Led Opposition

Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s coalition is weighing how to confront the Alternative for Germany party, which has been rising in the polls.

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Friedrich Merz Becomes German Chancellor After Winning Second Vote

Friedrich Merz secured the top job but only after losing on his first attempt, a surprise that potentially weakens his government at a fraught time for Germany and Europe

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Merz Failed in First Vote to Become Germany’s Chancellor. What Happens Next?

Friedrich Merz was poised to be sworn in as chancellor but did not win enough votes in Parliament. A second vote was scheduled for Tuesday afternoon.

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Who Is Friedrich Merz, Who Lost First Parliamentary Vote to Become Germany’s Chancellor?

Supporters of the former corporate lawyer say he is well-prepared and thoughtful, but critics accuse him of failing to think more than one step ahead and breaking promises.

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Friedrich Merz, Germany’s New Leader, Leaps Into a World of Crises

Friedrich Merz is becoming chancellor at the most challenging time for Germany since reunification 35 years ago.

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80 Years After Dachau Concentration Camp Liberation, Witnesses Remember

The anniversary of the end of the Nazi era comes at a pivotal time for Germans. The last of the survivors, liberators and perpetrators are dying, as the far right is becoming more established.

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Far-Right AfD Is Labeled Extremist by Germany’s Intelligence Agency

The designation is certain to inflame debates over whether the party should be banned, though some polls show it to be the most popular in the country.

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Marine Le Pen’s ‘Witch Hunt’ Talk Echoes Trump. Will It Work in France?

After years trying to moderate her party’s image, the far-right leader, convicted of embezzlement, now voices Trump-like outrage, at some risk.

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Coalition Deal in Germany Clears Way for Friedrich Merz to Become Chancellor

The agreement was concluded relatively quickly but still took about six and half weeks, during which the country had been virtually rudderless at a critical moment for Europe.

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Where Do You Bury a Nazi?

As the German right ascends, the nation is still grappling with its fascist past — and how to handle its remains.

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