The German federal election brought CDU victory with 28.6%, but AfD's surge to 20.8% dominated coverage. By afternoon, Merz announced plans for CDU-SPD coalition talks, aiming for Easter government formation, while Habeck resigned from Green leadership.
At the UN, unprecedented US opposition to its own Ukraine resolution, modified by European amendments, signaled further Western support erosion. Trump's praise for Meloni and announcement of upcoming Zelensky meeting coincided with Putin suggesting openness to European peacekeepers.
Pope Francis's condition showed improvement through the day, with Vatican sources reporting reduced asthmatic crises while maintaining oxygen support. Evening prayer vigils began at St. Peter's Square, marking institutional preparation for potential deterioration.