In a press conference he held with capital correspondents in Berlin, Merz said that the government under his leadership had found its rhythm despite criticism and had initiated reforms in various areas. He stated that some reforms had been implemented.

The state parliament elections to be held in September in the eastern German states of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and Saxony-Anhalt were recalled. Merz, stating that the AfD was polling first in these regions, explained that they were facing a different political situation there, but that election campaigns had just begun.

Merz expressed his hope that they would prevent the AfD from gaining a majority in the parliament in these two states.

Merz, emphasizing that he had a clear stance against the AfD, stated that this stance was not against AfD voters, but against the party's leaders.

To a journalist's question about a far-right party joining the government in the Netherlands in the past and failing, and whether Germany would learn a lesson from this, Merz said, "There is no lesson for Germany to learn from this, because the situation is different for Germany. If a far-right party comes to power in Germany, its meaning would be completely different from what would happen in another country in the European Union (EU). This is also related to our history."

Merz, pointing out that this was therefore not a benchmark, an example, or a subject for learning for him, said, "I will do everything in my power to prevent this (the AfD coming to power) in Germany."

Merz, also addressing those who vote for the AfD, used the expression, "Look carefully. Do not only get informed by social media activities, wherever they may be, but also look at what the German government is trying to implement."

Merz explained that they were trying to protect peace and freedom in the country, improve the economic situation, and striving to stabilize and advance the country.

Call to the US not to interfere in German elections

When asked about allegations that financial support was being provided by the US to some anti-immigrant political groups in Europe, Merz said, "I have always said that we would not interfere in American elections. We have always maintained this. Conversely, I also do not want the American government or organizations close to the government to interfere in German elections."

Merz also noted that it is illegal for political parties in Germany to receive funding from outside the country, saying, "I assume that our friends around the world, in particular, will abide by the legal rules we have set for ourselves in Germany."