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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
World
Tom Watling

Why Friedrich Merz’s voting debacle could upset his ambitious plans for the EU

Friedrich Merz AFD SPD CDU Germany United States Bundestag Olaf Scholz The Associated Press Europe
Mr Merz appeared shocked at the initial outcome - (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Germany’s Friedrich Merz on Tuesday became the first chancellor-in-waiting to fail to form a coalition government at the first attempt.

The conservative leader needed 316 votes in the 630-seat Bundestag to form a majority in parliament but unexpectedly fell six seats short just over two months after winning the snap election.

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