European leaders condemn AfD win in eastern German state election

Paris – France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs described the recent electoral success of Germany’s Alternative for Germany (AfD) as a “grave moment” for the continent, warning that the surge in nationalist sentiment could undermine the cohesion of the European Union. Speaking to the press on Thursday, the minister said the AfD’s gains signaled a shift toward more extreme political positions in a country that has long been a cornerstone of EU stability.

The minister highlighted that the AfD’s entry into several state parliaments and its strong showing in the federal election reflect a broader trend of right‑wing populism gaining traction across Europe. He cautioned that such developments risk eroding shared values, complicating cooperation on issues ranging from migration to climate policy, and could embolden other nationalist movements seeking to challenge the EU’s integrated framework. The remarks came amid ongoing debates in Brussels about the Union’s ability to respond to internal dissent while maintaining a unified foreign and security policy.

In concluding, the French official called for renewed commitment among member states to defend democratic principles and to address the socioeconomic concerns that fuel extremist appeals. He urged European leaders to reinforce solidarity and to pursue policies that mitigate the appeal of nationalist rhetoric, emphasizing that the Union’s future depends on collective action against divisive forces.