The Kremlin said on Monday that Germany's decision to classify the Alternative for Germany party as an "extremist" entity is a restrictive measure against European non-mainstream forces. Germany's domestic intelligence agency classified the AfD as an extremist entity that threatens democracy,

Germany has classified the AfD as a confirmed extremist party, triggering legal reviews, political fallout, and international criticism. Here’s what the move means for democracy and how global players are responding.

The designation is certain to inflame debates over whether the party should be banned, though some polls show it to be the most popular in the country.