Recent gains by Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany , or AfD, in state elections dealt Scholz’s fractious government another blow. Political fragmentation and polarization have tied the hands of political leaders , who can govern only in unwieldy coalitions between left- and right-leaning parties. “What is happening in Europe with military production, even at a time of a perceived existential threat from Russia, is a joke,” he said. European leaders have sought his help with migrants and asylum seekers making their way to Europe. European leaders are also interested in access to the Balkan nation’s large reserves of lithium.

Source: Wall Street Journal October 15, 2024 04:04 UTC