Frederick Merz the leader of Germany's Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and a potential candidate for Chancellor sharply criticized the U.S. for its involvement in Germany's recent parliamentary elections. He made these comments during a post election event in Berlin. Along with Merz Olaf Scholz the current Chancellor and leader of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) also condemned the actions of U.S. officials.

Merz pointed out the extensive interference by the U.S. in the German election drawing parallels to Russia's actions. He stated that The interference from Washington was no less dramatic than that of Moscow but ultimately it failed. Merz argued that the remarks and provocations made by U.S. leaders particularly President Donald Trump and his advisor Elon Musk, indicated that the current U.S. government was indifferent to Europe's future.

A key point in Merz's criticism was Elon Musk’s repeated public support for Germany's far right party, Alternative for Germany urging voters to back them. Merz emphasized that Germany is under external pressure but clarified that his party’s primary goal is to foster unity within Europe and to strengthen European power. He added that Germany should gradually move away from U.S. influence and expressed eager anticipation for the upcoming NATO summit in June. Merz predicts that NATO may no longer remain as it is and that Europe must swiftly develop its own defense capabilities.

In recent developments, Trump’s efforts to facilitate peace talks between Russia and Ukraine excluding Kyiv and European leaders shocked political figures across Europe. This led to discussions among European leaders on formulating a unified response.

Election Results and Potential Coalition

In the latest parliamentary elections the CDU/CSU secured 208 seats out of 630 while the far-right won 152 seats. The SPD obtained 120 seats, the Green Party earned 85 seats and the Left Party gained 64 seats. According to traditional coalition practices, talks are underway about forming a government with the SPD, CDU/CSU and possibly the Green Party.

However the  with its 152 seats is set to become the main opposition party in a historic shift for post World War II German democracy. Merz has ruled out forming a coalition with the as it is uncommon for mainstream parties in Germany to partner with far right groups.

Although there was speculation about the SPD joining Merz's CDU in a coalition the SPD suffered its worst ever election result. Scholz the outgoing Chancellor and SPD leader, acknowledged that the election outcome was a significant defeat for his party and announced that he would not participate in coalition talks.

Merz 69 who has never held a ministerial position, pledged during his campaign that, if elected Chancellor he would lead Europe and continue supporting Ukraine. U.S. President Donald Trump welcomed Merz’s victory claiming it showed that Germans much like Americans are growing weary of misguided agendas particularly those concerning energy and immigration policies.