In a stunning and unprecedented setback, Germany's conservative leader Friedrich Merz has failed to secure the majority needed to become chancellor in the first round of parliamentary voting — missing by just six votes. The defeat marks the first time since World War II that a chancellor candidate has fallen short on the initial ballot. As political uncertainty grips Berlin, coalition talks intensify and fresh elections loom as a possibility. The failed bid comes amid economic stagnation, the far-right AfD’s rise, and global pressure on Germany’s next leader.
