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AfD figure Björn Höcke offers support to left-wing populist Sahra Wagenknecht

AfD politician Björn Höcke has signaled willingness to back BSW leader Sahra Wagenknecht, a move that could weaken the existing barrier against far-right cooperation in Germany.

In a surprising political overture, AfD stalwart Björn Höcke said he would lend his backing to Sahra Wagenknecht, the leader of the left-wing populist party BSW. The suggestion is viewed as a potential breach of the long-standing "firewall" that has prevented mainstream parties from collaborating with the far right. The announcement arrives as German public-health officials report an unprecedented tally of heat-related fatalities this year.

Meanwhile, authorities are grappling with historically low river levels that have curtailed cargo shipping. Additional events are scheduled to mark the 65th anniversary of the Berlin Wall's erection, reflecting ongoing reflection on the nation's divided past.

Why it matters

The offer could reshape coalition dynamics and alter Germany's strategy for containing far-right influence.

In this story

AfDBSWfirewallheat-related deathsBerlin Wall anniversaryriver shippingfar-right cooperation