German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has launched an attack on the far-right AfD after the party won the weekend state election in Saxony-Anhalt. The result has quickly become a new flashpoint in German politics.

According to HBL, Merz’s criticism comes directly in response to AfD’s victory in the eastern state. The win gives the party added weight, while its opponents are trying to contain its growing influence.

What remains unclear is what practical effect Merz’s remarks will have. What is clear is that AfD’s success in Saxony-Anhalt has already intensified the political confrontation in Germany.