German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that Ukraine cannot become a full EU member while at war, suggesting associate membership instead. He proposed integrating Ukraine into EU military structures and extending defense mutual assistance provisions.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated China's currency is undervalued by 30%, significantly above the IMF's estimate. He criticized Beijing's use of high subsidies and non-convertible currency, warning of market flooding and harm to European manufacturers.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated China's currency is undervalued by 30%, far exceeding the IMF's estimate. He criticized Beijing's market flooding via subsidies and non-convertible currency, calling it unacceptable and a threat to European manufacturers.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz criticized the European Commission's proposed long-term budget (2028-2034) as "far too high" and called for a new proposal. EU leaders in Brussels also discussed support for Ukraine, including military aid and fast-track membership, and global economic challenges, agreeing to extend sanctions on Russia for 12 months.
UK pubs and restaurants are criticizing a temporary VAT cut on children's meals, calling it "laughable" and a "token gesture." One venue launched an expensive "kids" menu with snail salad to highlight the scheme's perceived inadequacy.
G7 leaders pledged to intensify economic pressure on Russia through strengthened sanctions, particularly on oil and gas. They also committed to increasing air defense and long-range capabilities for Ukraine, signaling a united front to support Kyiv and accelerate peace efforts.
Crimea has banned nighttime rides on mopeds, quad bikes, and motorcycles, citing their noise resemblance to drone attacks and alleging children are deliberately involved. Ukraine has intensified drone attacks on the peninsula, impacting supply routes and fuel availability. Meanwhile, a Ukrainian drone hit a Moscow refinery, halting operations, and Russia's strikes killed at least eight people across Ukraine.
G7 leaders aim to prioritize the Ukraine war, with Donald Trump suggesting the US may soon reinstate sanctions on Russian oil. Meanwhile, Ukraine reports a bomber crash and Russian strikes kill at least eight people across multiple regions. A Russian artist critical of Putin was killed in Poland.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Evian-les-Bains, France. They discussed advancing bilateral relations in areas like economy, industry, science, technology, security, and defense industry cooperation, and exchanged views on global conflicts.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on the sidelines of the G7 summit in France. Lee called for advancing bilateral relations to an unprecedented level, while Merz described current cooperation as "pretty good" and expressed anticipation for his upcoming visit to South Korea.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Tuesday during the G7 summit in Evian-les-Bains, France. The discussions focused on global challenges including the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, financial instability, and AI risks.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's foreign policy partnerships with Trump, Macron, Meloni, and Starmer show varied dynamics. While cooperation with Italy and the UK is pragmatic, German-French defense ties have faltered, and relations with Trump have faced strain.
A Russian oil tanker, the Smyrtos, was seized by Royal Marines off the Isle of Wight on Sunday after being monitored for days on suspicion of using a false flag. The seizure occurred amid political pressure following a resignation over defence spending.
Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan strongly criticized the Vice-Chancellors of Kerala, Mahatma Gandhi, and Malayalam universities for attending an event with RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, calling their presence a "grave lapse" and demanding an apology.
Former Defence Secretary John Healey resigned, accusing PM Keir Starmer of lacking authority to challenge Chancellor Rachel Reeves. The resignation highlights a growing tension between Starmer and Reeves, despite their public unity, over defence spending and economic policy.
Defence Secretary John Healey resigned, accusing Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves of risking national security due to insufficient defence investment. Healey stated the proposed Defence Investment Plan (DIP) lacked necessary resources, prompting his departure.
Labour MP John Healey resigned, citing the PM's "inability" and Chancellor's "unwillingness" to make the country safer. The defence spending row highlights government dysfunction amid global threats and internal party divisions.
AfD co-chairman Tino Chrupalla stated that German business representatives at SPIEF defended the interests of German companies operating in Russia, emphasizing the need for dialogue and the economic importance of these firms for Germany.
German Chancellor satisfied with "constructive" talks with social partners on economic reforms. Unions praise respect, while employers and opposition urge faster action and express disappointment with the government's engagement.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz indicated on Thursday that the EU should defend itself against unfair trade practices, showing increased willingness to support European Commission proposals for a firmer stance on China. Merz highlighted concerns over China's subsidized exports and industrial overcapacity, which he stated are harming European industries and leading to job losses in Germany.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz outlined Germany's reform agenda, focusing on health, pensions, defense, labor, energy, taxes, bureaucracy, and investment. He urged parliament to support the proposals aimed at boosting growth and adapting to global challenges.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that Ukraine's proposed associate membership in the EU would grant Kyiv participation in Council of EU and Council of Ministers meetings, along with a non-voting European Commissioner status. Germany seeks a lasting peace for Ukraine, considering its own security interests.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will deliver a government statement to parliament on reforms and the upcoming EU summit. Talks with unions and employers on labor market, social security, and bureaucracy reforms were constructive but yielded no decisions. The EU summit will focus on Ukraine and the bloc's long-term budget.
Thousands demonstrated in Berlin calling for German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's resignation, citing deepening dissatisfaction with his government's performance, reflected in a recent INSA poll showing 77% disapproval.
