Has Friedrich Merz unlocked what a senior socialist MP called “the gates of hell” by accepting AfD support on two key immigration votes? With less than three weeks until the German elections, the CDU leader and likely future chancellor insists he won’t govern with the far right—but who will he partner with? What’s his real strategy? And has the AfD gained a boost from Elon Musk’s backing?

Today Radio Schuman answers these questions with Euronews' Berlin correspondent Liv Stoud.

Merz and his Christian Democrats, now polling above 30%, shook German politics last week by seeking AfD support for tough new immigration measures—breaking a long-held taboo against working with the far right. Though the bill failed, the backlash was swift, with tens of thousands protesting nationwide. Has this gamble hurt Merz’s popularity, or will it shape the upcoming elections?

We also look at the pros and cons of hotels and Airbnbs while travelling.

Radio Schuman is hosted and produced by Maïa de la Baume, with journalist and production assistant Eleonora Vasques, audio editing by David Brodheim. Music by Alexandre Jas.

Europe Today is Euronews’ daily podcast hosted by Maria Tadeo and Méabh Mc Mahon, broadcasting directly from Brussels, at the heart of Europe.   

Every morning, we deliver the top and exclusive stories shaping the European Union (EU) and beyond.

Stay ahead with the key news and insights that matter in Europe today.

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