German leader's party wins no seats in regional vote

Germany's leader Friedrich Merz's centre-right party, the CDU, missed the 5% minimum for any seats in the north-eastern state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Le Monde reported, citing early counts. Broadcaster DW said the Berlin and north-eastern votes were a historic loss. Mr Merz said the results were disastrous and he would carry on. Reuters reported no immediate leadership challenge.