The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party’s decisive victory in the Saxony-Anhalt state election on Sunday has underscored a shifting political landscape in Europe, highlighting growing influence for far-right groups aligned with views sympathetic to Russian President Vladimir Putin. The AfD, known for its anti-immigration stance, has openly expressed support for Putin’s efforts to weaken Ukraine, despite Russian escalation against the European Union.
Just weeks before the vote, German authorities attributed a failed drone attack on Leipzig airport to Russian operatives, further intensifying tensions between Berlin and Moscow. Following the election results, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz acknowledged the Kremlin would welcome the outcome. Speaking in Berlin after meeting with AfD leadership, Merz emphasized Russia’s objective to destabilize Western values, which he described as non-negotiable.
The influence of pro-Russian rhetoric, however, extends beyond Germany. In France and Italy—Europe’s second and third-largest economies—populist leaders are increasingly advocating policies toward Kyiv that align with Moscow’s messaging.
Jordan Bardella, president of France’s National Rally party, called for a reassessment of France’s support for Ukraine. Bardella argued that France’s ongoing financial struggles necessitate a more conditional approach to military assistance, seeking tangible returns for continued aid. The 30-year-old politician, who is a potential prime ministerial candidate if Marine Le Pen wins the upcoming presidential election, warned that France cannot sustain financial commitments without guarantees. Le Pen’s strong showing in polls has raised concerns among Ukraine’s allies about the future of French support under her possible leadership.
“We are drowning in debt. We are drowning in deficits. And it is irresponsible to make spending commitments and promises of financial support to a country without any guarantees,” Bardella said during an interview at the Ambrosetti Forum in Italy.
Meanwhile, in Italy, Roberto Vannacci, a former army general and ultranationalist, has gained traction with a platform focused on restricting immigration and pursuing peace negotiations with Russia in the Ukraine conflict. According to a Youtrend poll released on September 4, his National Future party, established earlier this year, ranks as the second-strongest right-wing faction behind Giorgia Meloni’s Brothers of Italy party. Vannacci emphasized the complexity of the conflict, stating, “The truth is never entirely on one side.”
These developments in Germany, France, and Italy reflect broader challenges faced by the European Union as far-right and populist forces advance political agendas that may undermine the bloc’s unified stance on supporting Ukraine amid ongoing Russian aggression.