Daily Briefing 24.12.2025, 17:57 (CET)

German president calls for solidarity with Ukraine at Christmas

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier encouraged people to show solidarity with Ukrainians enduring ongoing Russian attacks, in his official Christmas address released on Wednesday.

Ex-Liverpool sporting director Schmadtke back at Hanover

Former Liverpool sporting director Jörg Schmadtke is returning to Hanover 96 as managing director for sport, the German second division club said on Wednesday.

European powers decry US travel bans in online 'censorship' row

European powers on Wednesday sharply criticized entry bans imposed by the United States on five Europeans accused of censoring online platforms, warning the move could trigger countermeasur...

Berlin denounces US sanctions against German anti-hate speech group

The German government on Wednesday denounced sanctions imposed by the United States against the heads of HateAid, a German organization that supports victims of online hate.

Merz stresses responsibility towards Europe in Christmas address

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz underscored his government's commitment to ensure peace and security prevail in Europe, in his Christmas video message posted on X on Wednesday.

Russia sets trial date for German artist over satirical Putin floats

A Russian court has scheduled the first public hearing in a criminal case against German sculptor Jacques Tilly, accused of discrediting the Russian military through his satirical Carnival ...

Müller says Liverpool's Wirtz would have had easier start in Munich

Florian Wirtz would have probably had an easier start at Bayern Munich than at Liverpool, former Bayern great Thomas Müller has said.

Ex-coach Klinsmann sees Germany among World Cup favourites

Germany have a chance to win next year's World Cup, former national team coach Jürgen Klinsmann believes.

Christmas instead of Four Hills preparation for retired Eisenbichler

Former world champion Markus Eisenbichler of Germany is not missing ski jumping as he looks forward to his first Christmas since retiring from the sport.

Top German diplomat says Ukraine ceasefire won't end Russian threat

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul believes that Russia might use a potential ceasefire in Ukraine to ramp up preparations to attack a NATO country, urging the defence alliance to be r...