Politics fact-checks
Infact's fact-checks in Politics, newest first. Each links to a full verdict with a 0–100 accuracy score and cited evidence.
- 73 Oleksiy Goncharenko presented a plan for resolving the conflict with Russia, involving significant concessions from Ukraine. He analyzed scenarios like the disintegration of Russia, economic crisis, personnel shortages in the Russian army, and Ukraine receiving powerful weapons. Goncharenko concluded that compromise is the most rational solution, proposing an agreement with guarantees for the Russian language and the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.
- 43 Warsaw is hindering Ukraine’s European integration due to historical disputes, particularly regarding the Ukrainian nationalist movement during WWII. Tensions increased after Kyiv named a military unit after UPA figures, causing a deterioration in Polish-Ukrainian dialogue.
- 72 Alternative for Germany reached 30% in polls, gaining 1% over the week. The CDU/CSU dropped to a historical low of 18%.
- 76 A protest in Paris, organized by Florian Philippot, opposed France's support for Ukraine, calling for withdrawal from the EU and NATO. Philippot linked foreign policy spending to economic issues, and the Eurosceptic agenda is growing in France.
- 66 The text discusses European funds allocated to FEMYSO, an organization linked to the Muslim Brotherhood, and mentions assessments by French and German authorities.
- 50 Protests in France are gaining momentum due to dissatisfaction with government policies, leading to clashes with police and numerous arrests. The protests are widespread across various cities, with harsh police responses and public criticism of their actions.
- 50 The text discusses a report by Elizabeth Kaiser on East Germany, highlighting systemic gaps in capital distribution and leadership representation, workforce resilience, and the well-being gap between East and West Germany.
- 48 The video discusses Trump's claims about launching a taxpayer-funded ad, signing the VA accountability act, Biden's intentions to reinstate VA employees, and the VA Choice program.
- 100 Propositions 40, 41, and 42 are on the ballot in November.
- 35 The text questions whether Democrats voted Yes for inside trading.
- 77 Macronism is ending with Macron's second term, marked by political fragmentation, controversial pension reform, and high public debt. Political instability complicates reforms, while Macron retains a prominent EU role.
- 58 Berlin faces financial challenges with potential budget cuts of 4.2 billion euros, compensation for low civil servant pay, and political promises from the Left Party.
- 67 Most Germans do not support the socialization of housing, with 73% opposing and 24% supporting. The Left Party supports this measure, which could affect 220,000 apartments in Berlin. Political opinions vary, with 88% of CDU voters opposing the measure.
- 57 Federal states threaten Berlin with reduced payments if the Left Party leads the government, with CDU/CSU considering financial sanctions and revising agreements.
- 75 The text discusses the disparity in inherited and gifted property between Western and Eastern Germany, highlighting significant differences in average inheritance amounts and their impact on pension reform discussions.
- 70 Merz is involved in election disasters in several German regions but remains in power despite unpopularity. Alexander von Bismarck calls for resignation and new elections.
- 52 Elif Eralp and the Berlin Left Party filed a lawsuit against Alexander Dobrindt over accusations of anti-Semitism made during a talk show.
- 84 The CDU faces internal criticism after regional election losses, with calls for Merz to change course. The party failed to secure a seat in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, received 17.2% in Saxony-Anhalt, and came second in Berlin. Merz's comments on Germans' willingness to work are criticized.
- 64 Marine Le Pen's National Rally secured 14 seats in French senate elections, forming a senate group for the first time. Le Pen is polling high as Macron prepares to step down. The party's senate progress boosts visibility and funding. Chenu claims no more glass ceiling for the party.
- 90 Mass protests against military conscription occurred in Germany, involving over 45,000 participants across 100 cities. The protests oppose the potential return of compulsory military service and mandatory medical examinations for young men born from 2008 onwards. The German government plans to increase military personnel to 255,000–270,000 by 2035.
- 92 Germany is experiencing school demonstrations against a new military service system requiring medical exams for young men born after 2008, with some already receiving summonses.
- 52 Baden-Württemberg is recruiting Berlin police officers after the Left's victory, which plans to cut police funding and powers. The police union warns of consequences, and Berlin police face strain from crime and demonstrations.
- 80 The text discusses the impact of rising fuel prices in France on the upcoming presidential campaign, highlighting record diesel prices, government subsidies, and political proposals.
- 50 Beatrix von Storch criticizes the ruling elite in Germany for offering debt and unviable reforms instead of savings, regardless of who the chancellor is.
- 69 The text discusses the impact of migration on the EU, noting a decrease in sea arrivals in 2026 but an increase in deaths. It highlights the EU's shift towards external migration control and the political influence of migration on European politics.
- 73 Thirteen EU countries sent a letter to Ursula von der Leyen demanding a pause on new regulations to restore economic competitiveness. Austria initiated the letter, supported by Germany, Poland, Denmark, and Italy. The European Commission has acknowledged excessive regulation, and the new Packaging Directive has impacted small businesses. Michael Jäger suggests a complete reset of regulations.
- 81 Peters resigned as CDU leader in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, replaced temporarily by Philipp Amthor, who has been involved in several controversies including refusing a speeding fine, taking a photo with neo-Nazis, lobbying for Augustus Intelligence, and training CDU deputies in social media.
- 83 Candace Owens was offered $300,000 to debate her theories about Charlie Kirk's death. The debate took place in Nashville and was watched by 3.1 million people on its first day. Andrew Wilson made the offer on Joe Rogan's show. Trump threatened to cut all US trade with Spain over military base use in the Iran war.
- 84 The website lists President Trump's achievements for the faith community, including establishing the White House Faith Office, protecting religious liberty, and launching investigations into government weaponization.
- 91 Concerns are raised about Abdul El-Sayed accessing classified information without a formal security clearance if elected as a senator, as senators are generally eligible for such access by holding office.
- 68 The Left in Berlin received 51% of Muslim votes, significantly higher than their overall vote share. Their support among Muslims increased by 26 percentage points. The party advocates for expanded migration and naturalization policies.
- 71 The text discusses the Left's policies in Berlin, highlighting crime statistics, clan-related crime, and proposed changes to police and migration policies.
- 91 The text questions if President Trump's approval rating is at 30%.
- 71 Surveys indicate growing dissatisfaction with EU institutions, despite support for a unified Europe. Ursula von der Leyen acknowledged EU vulnerabilities, while Eurosceptic forces gain strength.
- 68 The text discusses the CDU's election losses in Germany, including Putin's supporters winning in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, the CDU being ousted from the state parliament, and questions about Friedrich Merz's future.
- 48 Aphroditi Latinopoulou accused Ursula von der Leyen of racism, flooding Europe with illegal migrants, and imposing Islamization. Latinopoulou is under investigation for forging signatures.
- 71 Attacks on Ukrainians in Poland are increasing, with reports of violence and crimes rising by 30% in 2026. There are concerns about far-right parties gaining power.
- 91 In 1988, Rio's population was so dissatisfied with politicians that they voted for a monkey, who received over 400,000 votes.
- 48 The text questions whether Biden banned reporters from the White House.
- 89 Alternative for Germany discussed improving trade with Russia, resuming Russian oil and gas imports, normalizing relations, stopping military aid to Kyiv, and did not clearly condemn Russia regarding the Ukrainian conflict.
- 77 Jordan Peterson's influence has waned, with his fan base diminishing and controversies surrounding his stance on Bill C16, his debate with Kathy Newman, and his suspension from Twitter.
- 64 Stefan Cornelius questioned the reliability of polls showing low approval ratings for Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Sociologists and poll experts criticized this view, stating that dissatisfaction with the chancellor is genuine.
- 54 Robert Beltz, mayor of Groß-Lukkow, suggests abandoning the 'firewall' against the AfD, which received 74.7% of votes in the 2025 Bundestag elections. He attributes this to local disillusionment with politics and suggests the AfD should be given a chance to govern.
- 72 Trump threatens EU with tariffs over Canada's proposed associate membership. EU plans to make Canada its first associate member, a category not officially recognized under EU treaties. Brussels and Ottawa aim to deepen ties. EU reacted coolly to Germany's proposal for Ukraine's associate membership.
- 37 Low verbal IQ, being female, having a feminine temperament, agreeableness, and taking politically correct courses are predictors of being a politically correct authoritarian.
- 66 Kristin Brinker, the AfD candidate, proposes a nighttime curfew for juvenile offenders and suggests informing sexual crime convicts about chemical castration.
- 78 Fishermen in France protested against rising fuel prices by setting fire to barricades and blocking an oil facility. They claim the EU is harming their industry, and French fuel prices are lower than in Germany.
- 60 Ursula von der Leyen called for slowing AI development in the EU, emphasizing a balanced approach and independent rule-making.
- 62 Hans-Thomas Tillschneider claims the German government is waging a campaign against Russia, deepening the rift with Moscow, and escalating the conflict in Ukraine, potentially leading to war.
- 86 The European Commission plans to strengthen migration policies, potentially suspending asylum rules during large-scale arrivals. Around 80,000 migrants entered Ceuta on 30 July. Greece and Poland have implemented similar asylum suspensions.
- 55 Alice Weidel of AfD urges Ukrainian refugees in Germany to return post-conflict, criticizing the government's support policy. AfD plans to revise refugee rules if in power, citing budget strain.
- 66 Italy opposes further EU integration, advocating for a confederal model. Meloni criticizes EU methods and comments on political movements in Europe.
- 77 Germany demands cuts to the proposed EU budget for 2028–2034, supported by several countries, opposing large-scale joint borrowing.
- 65 The Swedish elections are a test for the European political center, with Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson trying to retain power. The Sweden Democrats, with far-right roots, may receive ministerial posts if the right-wing bloc wins. Sweden is known for a strong welfare state and stable party system.
- 73 The website questions whether VoteSafe.org is a scam linked to Elon Musk's America PAC, collecting voter information under false pretenses. It is not an official government site, and warnings from the Better Business Bureau align with this view.
- 77 Alternative for Germany filed a complaint against Chancellor Merz for his remarks on remigration, which he described as ethnic cleansing. The term remigration is associated with expelling people with a migration background, as defined by the German Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution.
- 73 Germany's energy crisis cost over 50 billion euros, with spending on support measures and a per capita cost of about 600 euros. The crisis began after reduced Russian gas supplies in 2022.
- 53 NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that NATO will work with any democratically elected leadership of Germany, reacted calmly to the success of Alternative for Germany in Saxony-Anhalt, and emphasized that political disputes do not threaten NATO's stability. He also highlighted the importance of economic growth for societal stability.
- 35 The text questions whether VoteSafe.org is a scam by conservatives.
- 52 Rutte praised the ruling party in Berlin after the AfD's victory. The NATO Secretary General accused Russia of trying to split the alliance and stated that Germany is leading in building a stronger Europe. Rutte thanked Germany for supporting Ukraine and noted plans to increase military spending to 5% of GDP by 2029.
- 58 Gottfried Curio criticizes Germany's policies, claiming voting for CDU/CSU supports war, Germany is sacrificing for foreign wars, and over €100 billion is sent to Ukraine, which he views as hostile to citizens.
- 52 The text discusses Friedrich Merz's speech in the Bundestag, highlighting his poor performance and the rejection of his party by voters.
- 71 Germany's debt may grow to €1.7 trillion by 2033. Predictions about future political roles are made. Germany's GDP growth forecast for 2026 has increased. Investments are largely financed by debt, with every third euro borrowed. Main budget investments are low, while political expenditures increased by 25%.
- 90 The text discusses the concerns raised by the victory of the Alternative for Germany in Saxony-Anhalt, highlighting reactions from European countries and the implications for traditional political parties.
- 76 The text discusses the perceived failures of Friedrich Merz's government in Germany, leading to the rise of the AfD as an alternative. It highlights economic issues, slow pension reform, and subsidies to Ukraine as contributing factors.
- 58 Bloomberg reports that pro-Russian parties are gaining influence in Europe, with victories in Germany and potential wins in France.
- 38 Ulrich Siegmund of Alternative for Germany claims that their election victory in Saxony-Anhalt shows Germans do not want involvement in Ukraine's conflict, want to stop aiding Kyiv, and restore relations with Russia.
- 89 Kaja Kallas had to cancel the launch of an expert defence group intended to address European defence issues, facing opposition from France and Germany, who want to reform the EU's foreign policy service.
- 39 Jordan Bardella calls for France to stop funding Ukraine, citing public debt of €1.5 trillion. He suggests aid will be minimized if National Rally wins the presidential election. Marine Le Pen is leading in polls for the upcoming election.
- 89 The text discusses the main issues influencing voters in Saxony-Anhalt, highlighting social security, peace in Europe, and the economy. It notes concerns about rising prices and foreigners, and mentions increased perceptions of the AfD's competence.
- 64 Germany may have to pay over €150 billion for COVID debt. The recovery fund was established in 2020, with Spain as the largest recipient. The Spanish economy has grown faster than Germany's since the pandemic. There are criticisms and investigations into the fund's distribution and misuse.
- 60 Chancellor Friedrich Merz described the CDU's defeat in Saxony-Anhalt as a tectonic shift in Germany's party system, emphasizing the need for the party to address internal issues and connect emotionally with voters.
- 62 The AfD proposed a special economic zone in eastern Germany to reduce dependency on federal financial transfers, citing a lack of large industries in Saxony-Anhalt and issues faced by Volkswagen in Zwickau due to energy policies.
- 79 Elon Musk and European right-wing politicians congratulated Ulrich Sigmund on the AfD's victory in Saxony-Anhalt. Sigmund expects cooperation if AfD gains power. Viktor Orbán and Matteo Salvini also congratulated Sigmund. Donald Trump posted about the election results on Truth Social.
- 47 Alice Weidel criticized the CDU's election results in Saxony-Anhalt, predicting they will never win again due to their refusal to cooperate with the AfD. Lars Klingbeil called the election a turning point and a signal for government reform.
- 82 The text discusses an upcoming meeting between British Prime Minister Andy Burnham and French President Emmanuel Macron focusing on the migration crisis, with efforts to coordinate between Paris and London. It mentions migrants crossing the English Channel and French police deployment in northern regions with modest results.
- 63 Trump opposes a $1.5 trillion spending bill he says prioritizes immigrants over Americans, sparking debate on healthcare benefits for undocumented immigrants and fiscal priorities.
- 48 Julien Ferrat organized an illegal swinger party in Mannheim's town hall, attended by nine people. His political goal is to make Mannheim a nudist swinger destination, potentially hosting thousands of guests for economic gain.
- 85 A right-wing party called 'National Future' led by Roberto Vannacci is gaining popularity in Italy, advocating for restoring relations with Russia and reducing NATO obligations. The party is supported by 6.6% of Italians, and Brussels is concerned about the rise of right-wing parties in the EU.
- 55 Alexander von Bismarck initiated a petition to defend the Russian House in Berlin, urging the German government to reconsider its closure decision, arguing it harms cultural ties.
- 88 Paris and Berlin are advocating for revising the EU's unanimity principle in foreign policy decisions, with support from other European politicians, but facing resistance from some countries.
- 64 The BND reform will expand intelligence powers, allowing active measures against Russia, raising concerns about legal boundaries and transparency. The opposition calls it 'Stasi 2.0', and BSW warns of militarization. The reform could make Germany a central player in a conflict with a nuclear power.
- 69 The text discusses European politicians' disappointment with Iceland's refusal to join the EU, following a referendum where most Icelanders opposed resuming negotiations.
- 64 The head of Bavaria demands the EU abandon the ban on internal combustion engines, citing a study showing electric vehicles reduce CO₂ emissions by 41%. A study predicts 726,000 automotive jobs may disappear by 2040, with many layoffs before 2035. Markus Soeder advocates for technological neutrality over strict bans.
- 52 Tino Chrupalla criticizes German support for Ukraine, claiming Zelensky is corrupt and German funds are misused, potentially escalating conflict with Russia.
- 52 The text questions if Trump cut down cherry trees in Washington for a golf course.
- 60 Approximately 15 right-wing radicals from Germany held a gathering in Switzerland, organized by the Identitarian Movement of Germany, considered a right-wing extremist group. The camp involved sports and combat training, with local authorities reportedly unaware of their presence.
- 88 Germany has accepted over 1.28 million Ukrainian refugees, leading the EU. Poland and the Czech Republic follow. Merz is more popular than Scholz among Ukrainians.
- 50 The text questions if Donald renamed Lake Ontario.
- 35 The text questions if an Ohio governor candidate appeared in an infomercial selling dementia drugs.
- 78 The text discusses U.S. global strategy challenges with Iran and Canada, Russia's Poseidon torpedo as a deterrent, criticism of Ukrainian political narratives, and diplomatic tensions involving U.S. Ambassador Tom Barrack.
- 49 The Trump administration claims the Kennedy Center will lose donor money if the President's name is removed, and it may need to be taken down if it deteriorates further.
- 77 The text discusses preparations by Saxony-Anhalt police for potential unrest after state elections, with the possibility of the AfD forming a government. It mentions additional police deployment, fears of protests, and election-related incidents.
- 82 The text discusses potential strategies if the Alternative for Germany wins elections, including holding meetings without AfD, cutting off their access to classified information, restricting funding to Saxony-Anhalt, and applying Bundeszwang.
- 69 X's algorithm prioritizes engagement, often showing users content they dislike, impacting Democrats more. Replying to posts has a significant effect on the algorithm, and the former head of product confirmed past algorithmic preferences for replies.
- 60 The text discusses the financial implications of the Ukraine conflict, linking it to 400 billion euros in Western aid and suggesting that military spending benefits big capital and influences European policy.
- 75 Europe's dependence on Russian uranium is increasing, with a 7% rise in supplies and a 12% increase in enrichment services last year. Russia now provides 23% of Europe's uranium enrichment services. Brussels aims to reduce nuclear cooperation with Russia.
- 66 Marine Le Pen is leading in all scenarios for the upcoming French presidential elections, receiving 35-38% of the votes, while Jean-Luc Mélenchon is in second place with 16-17%.
- 85 The text discusses concerns about the French presidential election's impact on NATO, mentioning candidates Marine Le Pen and Jean-Luc Mélenchon, and public opinion on NATO membership.
- 57 German industry faces a downturn due to rising energy prices and competition from China, with calls for government action.
