Exit polls indicate CDU/CSU set to be largest party but success of Alternative für Deutschland likely to complicate formation of a government

The conservative opposition CDU/CSU has won the most votes in Germany’s general election, exit polls indicated, but a surge by the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party is likely to complicate the formation of a government ready to help spearhead a European response to new global threats.

The CDU/CSU candidate, Friedrich Merz, appeared best placed to be tasked with forming a ruling coalition on Sunday night after clinching roughly 29% of the vote amid high turnout, according to exit polls released on public television networks.