AI-generated illustration

German Chancellor and Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leader Friedrich Merz said Russia is trying to destabilize Germany on a daily basis. Speaking at a congress of the Christian Social Union (CSU), the smaller partner in his governing coalition, held in Munich, Merz said Europe faced a major threat on its eastern edge.

Merz also addressed political polarization in Germany, relations with Israel and the role of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, and said his government is investing in the protection of freedom.

Stance toward the AfD

Merz said democratic parties in the center of the political spectrum must stand against attacks on freedom. He said this also applies to the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in Saxony-Anhalt, which he described as "busy attacking the parliamentary system and our values."

"I want to say this very clearly and openly: those who think these people should be voted for have no place in our CDU/CSU parties. They have no place among us. Whether from the left or the right, wherever they come from, we oppose them in Germany," Merz said.

Key takeaways

• German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Russia is trying to destabilize Germany every day.
• Merz said cyberattacks, sabotage attempts and strikes on critical infrastructure across Europe threaten freedom.
• He said democratic parties in the political center must resist attacks on freedom, including from the AfD.
• Merz said opponents of Israel and antisemites "will always find fierce opponents" in his camp.