Merz named German chancellor just hours after historic parliamentary defeat

Just a day after a tense parliamentary vote that confirmed him as Germany’s new chancellor, Friedrich Merz is on a diplomatic mission to France and Poland this Wednesday, aiming to strengthen relations with Germany’s European neighbors during challenging times. While a visit to France is a traditional first trip for German chancellors, Merz is placing particular emphasis on revitalizing ties that had cooled under his predecessor, Olaf Scholz. His stop in Poland, meanwhile, highlights the country’s growing significance in European politics, particularly due to its crucial role in supporting Ukraine against Russia. Antonia Kerrigan provides further details on Tuesday’s vote.