Germany’s Merz accuses far-right AfD of calling for ‘ethnic cleansing’ after bruising defeat
Merz also took aim at the AfD's calls for ending support for Ukraine
- Why it matters
- Merz, likely Germany's next chancellor, is publicly escalating accusations against the AfD over both domestic and foreign policy positions, sharpening the terms of political opposition after a poor election result.
- Most affected
- German voters considering mainstream parties — Face sharper framing of stakes between CDU and AfD in future contests.
Ukrainian government and supporters — Merz signals CDU opposition to AfD demands to halt German support for Ukraine. - Likely next
- Whether Merz or other CDU figures elaborate on the ethnic cleansing accusation, and whether the AfD responds to the charge.