Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned the US against interfering in German elections after the State Department announced a grant scheme linked to MAGA-aligned causes in Europe. Speaking before September state votes, Merz said the US must respect Germany’s electoral process and noted it is illegal to finance German political parties from abroad. The reported program, offering grants to groups or individuals, has raised concerns it could indirectly benefit right-wing movements, even as US officials denied any intent to fund parties.