Former Swiss Federal Councillor Ueli Maurer has stirred debate with a video message supporting Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.

Speaking at an AfD campaign event, Maurer expressed concern over Germany's political direction and criticized opposition to the AfD as "dangerous.

" He emphasized the importance of free speech and called for "alternatives" to prevent Europe from "slipping.

" Maurer's remarks come amid massive protests in Germany, where hundreds of thousands demonstrated against the AfD and recent migration policy shifts.

The AfD, partially classified as far-right by German authorities, has seen a rise in support ahead of the upcoming elections.

Maurer's appearance has sparked mixed reactions, with applause from AfD supporters but likely unease in Switzerland, where his party, the SVP, officially avoids foreign political alliances.