With Friedrich Merz's CDU/CSU union coming on top of the election, coalition talks will come next. Merz seemed keen to get to work right away, saying that "the world isn't waiting for us." Follow DW f

Friedrich Merz, the leader of the Christian Democrats, has ruled out a coalition with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which finished second in last week's elections. View on euronew

"Exploratory talks" are planned, with the meeting between the two political forces set to address general issues and establish a schedule for coalition negotiations. Read also: German opposition leader backs Zelenskyy's legitimate leadership amid criticism from Trump Priority topics for discussion include foreign and security policy,