Alice Weidel, co-leader of the far-right AfD, criticized Chancellor Friedrich Merz in a Bundestag debate, calling his speech a "swan song" and accusing the government of eroding Germany's economy with high taxes, energy costs and excessive spending. She rejected Ukraine's potential membership in the EU and NATO and warned that Berlin's support risks drawing Germany closer to the conflict. The AfD is under domestic intelligence scrutiny and has been criticized for ties to Moscow after recent trips by some lawmakers to St Petersburg. Weidel also urged Merz to seek new parliamentary majorities that would include the AfD, despite a broad political "firewall" against cooperation.
AfD Leader Alice Weidel Delivers Fiery Bundestag Rebuke of Chancellor Merz — Opposes Ukraine’s EU/NATO Bid
Alice Weidel, federal chairwoman and parliamentary group leader of the Alternative for Germany (AfD), speaks in the plenary chamber of the Bundestag ahead of the government's policy statement. (is associated with: «AfD leader Weidel takes aim at Merz over Kiev ties, climate policy») Michael Kappeler/dpa
Alice Weidel, co-leader of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), launched a sharp attack on Chancellor Friedrich Merz during a heated debate in the Bundestag on Thursday, dismissing his address as a "swan song" and warning that Germany's economic foundations are being eroded.
Key Accusations and Policy Criticism
Responding to Merz's remarks, Weidel said the government's policies — which she blamed on "high taxes and energy costs, bureaucracy and a planned economy" — were undermining the country's competitiveness. She accused the governing coalition of squandering billions on migration, development aid, the energy transition and climate-adaptation measures.
"No, Ukraine can never become a member of the European Union and NATO. Full stop," Weidel declared, criticizing Merz's pledge of continued German support for Ukraine and warning that his approach risked dragging Germany into the conflict.
Allegations and International Links
The AfD — currently Germany's largest opposition party — is under scrutiny by domestic intelligence services over allegations of extremist and anti-immigrant positions. The party has also faced criticism for appearing to sympathize with Moscow after several AfD lawmakers recently travelled to Russia to take part in the Kremlin's economic forum in St Petersburg.
Weidel additionally attacked Merz's coalition with the centre-left Social Democrats (SPD), labeling the SPD "anti-German" and urging the chancellor to seek "new constructive majorities" in parliament — effectively proposing cooperation with the AfD. All mainstream German parties have maintained a "firewall" policy of refusing to collaborate with the AfD, and Merz has repeatedly ruled out working with the party.
The exchange highlights deepening tensions in German politics over energy and fiscal policy, migration, and Germany's role in supporting Ukraine — issues that could shape domestic debates and coalition dynamics in the months ahead.
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