Germany's likely next chancellor warned Europe can no longer rely on its American allies: "I never thought I would end up one day having to say that."

Weidel said voters had delivered a “clear majority” for a coalition with the AfD, which came second, and the winning Christian Democrats (CDU). But CDU leader Friedrich Merz has ruled out a coalition with the far-right party.

Friedrich Merz may have staved off the ascension of the far-right Alternative for Germany party for now, but the newly elected chancellor faces a critical test that will have seismic consequences for all of Europe,