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.
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