Germany holds national elections that will decide the future of Chancellor Merz

UPDATE - follow-up to German elections under way which could decide fate of Chancellor Merz - bbc.com: Voters across Germany are casting their ballots in a national election that will determine the political future of Chancellor Merz. Polling stations opened nationwide for an election process that carries high stakes for the current leadership of the country. Citizens are deciding the makeup of the parliament and the direction of the federal government. The outcome of this vote will directly shape whether Chancellor Merz retains his position and policy mandate. Results from the count will emerge as polling closes and officials process the ballots.