BERLIN, 16 July 2026 (TON): German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Wednesday that the United States should not interfere in Germany's elections, stressing the importance of respecting each country's democratic process.
Speaking during the government's annual summer press conference, Merz responded to reports about a U.S. program supporting political and civil groups in Europe. The program has faced criticism over concerns that it could indirectly benefit groups linked to Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.
Merz said Germany has never interfered in U.S. elections and expects the same in return. He also noted that foreign funding of German political parties is illegal and said all countries should respect Germany's election laws.