Germany's Soviet past looms over high-stakes election in Saxony-Anhalt: 'I do not consider Russians to be enemies'
Ahead of elections on Sunday, in which the far-right Alternative for Germany could win in this region of the former East Germany, the city of Stendal – where 10,000 Red Army soldiers were stationed during the Cold War – exemplifies the unique relationship between the former German Democratic Republic and Russia.
Rallies are planned across eastern Germany's Saxony-Anhalt ahead of upcoming elections for a new regional parliament. Authorities estimate thousands will attend the demonstrations, most of which oppose the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. The AfD is expected to secure over 40% of the vote, potentially becoming the largest party in the state parliament for the first time since World War II.
However, this victory may prove problematic as mainstream parties have declined to form a coalition with the far-right AfD. The current drought has caused severe low water levels on the Rhine River, prompting four German states to request additional federal funding to modernize inland waterways. The Rhine plays a crucial role in transporting raw materials, moving over 5% of all freight in the country.
Disruptions to cargo shipping due to the drought have resulted in economic losses estimated at up to €2 billion. Trade unions and civil society groups are organizing the largest rallies, including a "democracy festival." The AfD is also scheduled to hold its final campaign event in Magdeburg, the state capital.
Written by urgent.news from DW News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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