Merz’s government blames rising fuel costs and geopolitical shocks for renewed weakness, but economists say the coalition shares the blame.
FIFA suspended Folarin Balogun's one-game red card ban for stepping on an opponent's foot, allowing him to play against Belgium in the World Cup. The decision, reportedly influenced by a call from US President Donald Trump to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, has sparked outrage from Belgian officials.
Britain intercepted two Russian "Bear F" maritime patrol aircraft in the Norwegian Sea after they approached the HMS Prince of Wales carrier strike group in an "unsafe and unprofessional" maneuver. The Russian planes dropped sonobuoys near the carrier before being escorted away by British F-35 jets.
Erling Haaland scored twice in the final minutes to secure Norway's first-ever World Cup quarterfinal appearance, defeating Brazil 2-1. Norway will face England next.
England secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Mexico at the Estadio Azteca, overcoming a hostile crowd, a delayed kick-off, and a red card. Jude Bellingham scored twice and Harry Kane added a penalty, with England's defense holding strong in the final half-hour to advance to a quarterfinal against Norway.
Super Typhoon Bavi, with winds up to 290 kph, made landfall on Rota island, Northern Mariana Islands, causing major damage and power outages. Residents were urged to shelter immediately due to extreme winds and flying projectiles.
Pedro Lourtie, head of cabinet to European Council President António Costa, faces the challenge of brokering EU deals amidst diplomatic backchannels and internal rifts. His role involves balancing Brussels' priorities with the needs of 27 capitals, a task complicated by recent revelations of his direct contact with Moscow.
