Daily Briefing 04.07.2026, 16:51 (CEST)

Merz says Germany has some very good years ahead

Former Chancellor Helmut Kohl once promised citizens "flourishing landscapes." At the Christian Democrats' party conference in North Rhine-Westphalia, the current CDU leader and Chancellor—taking a somewhat more sober approach—predicts very good years ahead for the country. On one condition.

Germany's Wadephul seeks bigger fund for critical minerals

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul called for a boost to Germany's raw materials fund to support the extraction of rare earths and critical minerals, following a multi-day trip to South America.

Klopp set to meet officials in US as deal to take over Germany nears

What’s next for the DFB following the World Cup flop and the parting of ways with Julian Nagelsmann? Top candidate Klopp wants the national team coaching job. A major US city is becoming a key venue.

German frigate Nordrhein-Westfalen returns from UN mission

After around half a year on a UN mission off the coast of Lebanon, the German frigate Nordrhein-Westfalen (North Rhine-Westphalia) has returned to its home port of Wilhelmshaven.

German government plans more funding for new rail infrastructure

Subsidies are set to rise to around €2.2 billion by 2027. One association calls this the right approach—but sharply criticizes another budget item.

World champion Mertesacker offers himself to German football

The German national team's early World Cup exit continues to have repercussions. A former World Cup winner could envision taking a job in German football.

Zelensky discusses air defence with Merz

US Patriot systems are the most effective defense against Russia's ballistic missiles. However, Ukraine has only a few of them, and President Zelenskyy is discussing the matter with a close ally.

Germany's far-right AfD renews leadership duo

The right-wing populist Alternative for Germany (AfD) will continue to be led by the top duo of Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla. Both were confirmed in their posts at the party conference, though Chrupalla did suffer some loss of support.

BASF says Iran war tensions have had limited impact on business

Despite tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, the company considers itself robustly positioned—and is even benefiting from new market opportunities in Europe.

Poll: Most Germans back planned rise in top tax rate

To provide relief for low and middle incomes, the government plans to raise the so-called "tax on the rich." According to a survey, this measure enjoys strong public support.