Germany news: Merz's CDU mulls strategy on far-right AfD

Deutsche Welle (DW)CenterEN 11 min read 100% complete by Jon Shelton | Timothy Jones dpa, AFP, Reuters, AP, epd, KNAOctober 25, 2025 at 04:26 PM

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German President Frank-Water Steinmeier and Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen have called for Europe to increase its military strength and adopt a more assertive foreign policy stance. The appeal comes amid concerns over Russia's invasion of Ukraine and Moscow's hostility towards Europe, as well as the weakening of confidence in the United States under President Donald Trump. The presidents also criticized Hungary and Slovakia for their close ties with Russia, stating that such relations are detrimental to the EU. Meanwhile, Chancellor Friedrich Merz faced protests in Berlin after making controversial remarks about migrants, prompting a surge in support from his CDU party while drawing condemnation from opposition groups.

Key Topics & Entities

Frank-Walter Steinmeier ×2100% Alexander Van der Bellen ×2100% Germany ×3100% Austria ×2100%

Keywords

european union 80% military strength 70% russian invasion 70% protesters 60% liberal democracy 60% chancellor friedrich merz 60% autocracies 50% berlin's brandenburg gate 50% alternative for germany (afd) 50% migrants in germany 40%