Daily Briefing 10.04.2026, 16:15 (CEST)

Germany's Merz reprimands top minister amid row over high fuel prices

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz reprimanded his conservative colleague and Economy Minister Katherina Reiche on Friday amid bitter wrangling within the government coalition over how to tackle soaring fuel prices.

Czech police seek German extradition request for far-right fugitive

Czech authorities confirmed on Friday the arrest of convicted far-right extremist Marla Svenja Liebich, formerly known as Sven Liebich, who spent months on the run after failing to report to a women's prison in Germany last year.

Germany 'taking responsibility' on NATO's eastern flank in Lithuania

Germany is "taking responsibility" on NATO's eastern flank with its deployment in Lithuania, a top German parliamentary official said on Friday on a visit to the Baltic country.

Porsche sales drop 15% on weak China demand, US policy changes

German sports carmaker Porsche reported on Friday a drop in sales in the first quarter of 2026, citing continued weak demand in China and North America.

Germany's Daimler Truck feels the pinch in US with sharp sales drop

A weak US market and declining bus sales have led to a further drop in Daimler Truck's sales in the first quarter, resulting in a 9% decline compared with the same period last year, the company reported on Friday.

Over 500 flights cancelled in Frankfurt due to strike at Lufthansa

More than 500 flights have been cancelled at Germany's largest airport in Frankfurt amid a strike by Lufthansa cabin crew on Friday.

Protest blocks German arms giant Rheinmetall's premises in Berlin

Protesters blocked the premises of German arms giant Rheinmetall in Berlin on Friday, resulting in a police operation.

German space firm aborts rocket test flight over leak

A launch attempt of the Spectrum rocket developed by German start-up Isar Aerospace was aborted on Thursday evening at Norway's Andøya Spaceport due to a suspected leak.

Germany urges Iran to uphold ceasefire, ensure Hormuz shipping

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said he had spoken with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi, urging Tehran to uphold the ceasefire and engage in constructive negotiations.

'Hard to cope with': Heidenheim desperate to end long winless run

Heidenheim appear doomed for Bundesliga relegation but coach Frank Schmidt still hopes that their long winless run of 15 matches finally comes to an end.