Daily Briefing 17.05.2025, 12:19 (CEST)

Gay people in Germany facing more hate, violence, group says

Gay people in Germany face growing hostility and violence, an advocacy group has said on the occasion of International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia, observed on Saturday.

Over 230 firefighters battle large fire at German scrap metal yard

More than 230 firefighters were battling a large fire at a scrap metal yard near Oldenburg in north-western Germany on Saturday, according to the fire brigade.

German minister backs mobile phone ban at primary school

German Education Minister Karin Prien has called for a ban on private mobile phone use in primary schools, amid European debate on children's access to smartphones and social media.

Merz to meet Meloni in Rome on first visit as Germany's chancellor

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is set to receive new German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Rome on Saturday on his first visit to Italy since taking office.

German Foreign Minister: Russia 'threatens us all' in Baltic Sea

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has announced increased surveillance following alleged acts of sabotage by Russia's so-called shadow fleet on cables and pipelines in the Baltic Sea, in comments released on Saturday.

Survey shows Germans losing taste for US goods under Trump

More than a third of consumers in Germany are increasingly avoiding American products and services due to the policies of US President Donald Trump, according to a survey conducted released on Saturday.

Germany committed to nuclear phase-out as Belgium suspends exit

"I am very clear on this. There is continuity with the last federal government," Environment Minister Carsten Schneider said after a meeting with state environment ministers in western Germany.

Germany would be a 'poorer country' without migration, president says

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has called for debates on migration to be held with "reason," amid increased border controls under the country's new government.

Dobrindt: "Citizens expect political change from us"

Stronger controls on Germany's borders are a first step in reforming the country's migration policy, Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said on Friday.

German parliament to fly rainbow flag on Saturday

The German parliament will fly a rainbow flag on Saturday to mark the international day against homophobia, but the symbol for the queer community will not be seen during Berlin Pride celebrations.