The results from Germany’s most significant election in decades are still being finalized, but Friedrich Merz’s conservative CDU/CSU is anticipated to secure the largest portion of the vote and the greatest number of seats in the upcoming Bundestag.
In a social media post — composed entirely in uppercase letters — Trump did not directly name Merz or his party, instead referring to “THE CONSERVATIVE PARTY IN GERMANY.” He claimed that the nation’s shift to the right mirrors a political realignment also occurring in the U.S.
“MUCH LIKE THE USA, THE PEOPLE OF GERMANY HAVE GROWN TIRED OF THE IRRATIONAL AGENDA, PARTICULARLY ON ENERGY AND IMMIGRATION, THAT HAS DOMINATED FOR MANY YEARS,” Trump stated. “THIS IS A LANDMARK DAY FOR GERMANY, AND FOR THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA UNDER THE LEADERSHIP OF A GENTLEMAN NAMED DONALD J. TRUMP. CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL — MANY MORE VICTORIES ARE ON THE HORIZON!!!”
Following two weeks of persistent criticisms from the White House directed at European politicians, even such an unusual post could be construed as surprisingly positive news for Europe.
Trump has put transatlantic relations under strain by initiating unconditional discussions regarding the future of Ukraine with Russian leader Vladimir Putin and echoing Moscow’s criticisms of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Many across Europe will be hoping that Merz can persuade Trump of the importance of remaining committed to NATO and Ukraine, avoiding a retreat from America’s long-standing obligations to European security.
Interestingly, Trump did not reference the far-right Alternative for Germany party, which has the backing of influential advisor Elon Musk. The tech billionaire has actively supported the AfD, posting several times on his X social media platform on election day.
