Thousands protest in Erfurt to block AfD annual conference amid rising far-right influence

Large crowds gathered in Erfurt, Germany, to physically block access to the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party's annual conference. The demonstrations reflect growing public opposition to the far-right party's political agenda. The AfD has been leading in national opinion polls and is targeting gains in upcoming elections in eastern German states. Mainstream political parties have maintained a strategy of non-cooperation, refusing to form any alliances with the AfD. The protests highlight escalating tensions surrounding the party's expanding influence in German politics.