EU Medal for Merkel Sparks Outrage Among Right-Wing European Parties

Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel was awarded an EU medal in Strasbourg, an event that triggered a walkout by members of right-wing European parties. The ceremony, where European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen presented the medal to Merkel, was met with applause from other members of the European Parliament.

However, representatives from the "Patriots for Europe" group staged a protest, leaving the hall in disapproval. They voiced strong criticism of Merkel's tenure, with one sentiment labeling her a "very dangerous European." This reaction underscores the persistent opposition to Merkel's policies among certain political factions within the EU.

The award and the subsequent protest serve as a reminder of the divisive legacy of Merkel's chancellorship. While recognized by some for her leadership, her decisions, particularly concerning the 2015 refugee crisis, continue to draw sharp criticism from nationalist and conservative circles across the continent.