Merz: CDU will not work with AfD to form state government

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has ruled out the possibility of working with the Alternative for Germany, or AfD, following the anti-immigrant far-right party's victory in a state parliamentary election.

Speaking to reporters in the German capital Berlin on Monday, Merz said that members of his party were deeply shocked as they did not expect it to turn out like this. But Merz added that they must accept it.

The chancellor reiterated his position not to work with the AfD toward the formation of a state government. Merz noted that he will keep an eye on how a possible AfD-led government would deal with minority groups in Saxony-Anhalt. He said that if lines are crossed there, the federal government will do everything in its power to rectify the situation.