US Comments Impact Final Week of German Election Campaign

Germany’s election campaign is marred by U.S. Vice President JD Vance’s remarks on the far-right AfD, prompting protests and heated debates. Candidates, namely Friedrich Merz and Olaf Scholz, reject foreign interference, while Alice Weidel of the AfD supports Vance’s position. As migration dominates discussions, the AfD’s rising popularity is notable. Scholz emphasizes Europe’s vital role in Ukraine talks amidst tensions with the U.S.

Germany’s election campaign enters its final week, marked by intensifying debate amid allegations of U.S. interference favoring the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). U.S. Vice President JD Vance recently urged Germany to reconsider its longstanding reluctance to partner with far-right parties, prompting significant public reaction, including protests in Berlin.

Friedrich Merz, the leading candidate of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), stated unequivocally, “I will not allow an American vice president to tell me who I can talk to here in Germany.” Chancellor Olaf Scholz echoed this sentiment, deeming Vance’s comments unacceptable and asserting that his administration would not collaborate with extremist factions.

Alice Weidel, chief of the AfD, supported Vance’s stance, emphasizing that exclusionary tactics would disenfranchise millions of voters. With numerous debates and public rallies upcoming, candidates are striving to secure undecided votes, which according to surveys, encompass roughly 30 percent of the electorate.

Polls indicate that the CDU, led by Merz, is performing well, yet the campaign’s focus remains on migration issues, exacerbated by tragic recent events linked to asylum seekers. Despite the climate of division, the AfD has witnessed a rise in support, projected to achieve up to 20 percent in the upcoming election.

Additionally, the campaign unfolds amidst a fraught context regarding the Ukraine conflict, where Germany desires inclusion in forthcoming diplomatic discussions. Scholz affirmed that European nations must be involved in any negotiations concerning Ukraine, countering claims by U.S. officials suggesting otherwise, thereby reinforcing Europe’s agency in security matters.

The final phase of Germany’s election campaign is heavily influenced by U.S. comments on the far right, triggering both political controversy and public protests. The dialogue around migration continues to dominate, with rising support for the AfD, who may obtain record votes. As the political landscape remains complex, the need for European agency in the Ukraine crisis is underscored by Chancellor Scholz in the context of ongoing negotiations.

Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com