Trump Congratulates German Anti-Immigration Party for Country’s Biggest Far-Right Swing Since the Holocaust

**Trump Backs Germany’s Far-Right AfD as Political Divisions Deepen**

In a significant development in international politics, former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly endorsed the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, following its significant electoral success. The far-right party has reportedly achieved its strongest performance since the end of World War II, raising alarm among German political leaders who are wary of the party’s extremist views.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz cancelled a planned phone conversation with Trump on 9 September, shortly after the former president applauded the AfD’s recent electoral achievements. This response underscores the increasing tension between traditional political factions and the rising far-right movement within Germany.

In remarks made in the Bundestag, Merz described the AfD as a “destructive force,” criticising their proposals for mass deportations as tantamount to ethnic cleansing based on skin colour and origin. These concerns were echoed by many in the German political landscape who fear the implications of a far-right party gaining power in a nation still grappling with its Nazi past.

On the evening prior to Merz’s comments, Trump took to his Truth Social platform to commend the AfD, celebrating their nearly 44% vote share in the Saxony-Anhalt elections. “Wow! The Populist Party in Germany just had a really big night,” Trump proclaimed, attributing the party’s success to public frustration over immigration policies. His praise included a familiar slogan, “Make Germany Great Again” (MGGA), which echoes his own political brand that centres on stringent immigration reforms.

The AfD’s recent electoral surge suggests it may soon control one of Germany’s 16 federal states, a first for a far-right party since the defeat of Nazi Germany. This has raised eyebrows not only domestically but also across Europe, where leaders worry about the potential rise of similar political ideologies.

Following Trump’s endorsement, Merz’s office confirmed the cancellation of the call without elaborating on the reasons, apart from stating an objection to foreign interference in domestic politics. The White House has yet to provide an official comment regarding the incident.

Merz, representing the centre-right Christian Democratic Union (CDU), which has dominated German politics for the last two decades, described the AfD’s electoral performance as “seismic.” He articulated the threats posed by AfD policies, particularly their deportation plans, which could potentially impact millions of residents if implemented.

The AfD, designated as a “right-wing extremist” organisation by German domestic intelligence in Saxony-Anhalt, has increasingly engaged with U.S. political figures, drawing the attention of European leaders concerned about its potential normalisation. Vice President JD Vance’s statements last year caused worry among European capitals, perceived as tacit endorsements for extremist parties like the AfD, further complicating diplomatic relations.

In December 2025, it was reported that AfD officials had visited the United States to strengthen ties with lawmakers, with the State Department indicating that meetings with a broad spectrum of political entities—including the AfD—were part of standard diplomatic practice. This move has prompted some to speculate about U.S. intentions with regard to far-right parties within Europe.

The elevation of far-right ideals in Europe, particularly through the lens of the AfD, has reignited debates about the appropriate stance of political leaders. Merz has warned that should a radical right-wing party govern in Germany, it would carry implications that differ greatly from similar occurrences in other European countries, reflecting the historical consciousness of the nation.

As the AfD continues to gain traction, the political landscape in Germany is poised for potential upheaval, with traditional parties grappling with the challenges posed by an increasingly fragmented electorate. The intertwining of U.S. and German far-right politics adds another layer of complexity to this unfolding narrative, raising questions about the future direction of both nations.