Dominant Themes in Germany’s EU Election Campaigns: Ukraine War and Rise of Far Right

German parties gear up for European Parliament election campaign

As the European Parliament election in June approaches, German political parties have begun their campaigns with a focus on key issues such as the war in Ukraine and the rise of far-right nationalist parties in Europe.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s center-left Social Democrats (SPD) officially launched their campaign with a rally in Hamburg, reassuring voters that Germany would continue to support Ukraine without escalating tensions with Russia. Scholz emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and security in Europe, promising a balanced approach to the conflict.

The far-right Alternative for Germany party (AfD) also kicked off its campaign, but faced setbacks after a party assistant was arrested on suspicion of spying for China. Despite strong polling numbers, the AfD has been criticized for its Russia-friendly positions and controversial plans to deport millions of people of non-German ancestry.

In response, the Christian Social Union in Munich condemned the AfD for alleged ties to Russia and China, accusing some party members of espionage activities. Party leader Markus Soeder called for unity within the conservative opposition bloc and denounced any connections to foreign powers.

As the election campaign heats up, AfD leader Tino Chrupalla has called for solidarity within the party, dismissing accusations of foreign influence as smear campaigns. With tensions rising and accusations flying, the European Parliament election in Germany promises to be a closely watched and contentious battle for political power.