Stories from Berlin · Germany

Germany is discussing a potential agreement with the Pentagon regarding the stationing of missiles in Germany. These weapons, which have a range reaching into Russia, are intended to strengthen Germany's deterrence capabilities. The source noted that the Pentagon may seek to overturn or modify existing arrangements. Germans are concerned that the United States may not allow Germany to become a base for air defense missiles. This move is intended to bolster Ukraine's air defense capabilities.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz stated that he does not believe the United States can end the war in Iran quickly. The US President expressed dissatisfaction with the German Chancellor on Thursday regarding the Iran dossier. The President urged the Chancellor to focus on ending the war in Ukraine instead of interfering in Iran-related matters. Tensions between the two nations have increased following criticisms of US strategy in Iran by Friedrich Merz. The US leader also indicated he is considering a reduction of American military forces in Germany. German Chancellor Frederick Merz stated that Germany maintains sufficient supplies of oil and gas. The statement comes amid ongoing maritime tensions in the region. German Chancellor Angela Merkel expressed doubt regarding the US's ability to quickly end the war in Iran, stating that the US military action lacked a clear strategy.

A working group including the Chancellery and various ministries has drafted an internal paper regarding potential reductions in school assistance services. The proposal suggests moving from one assistant per child to potentially one per class to achieve billions in annual savings. The Parity Welfare Association warns these cuts could limit participation for children with disabilities. Negotiations are ongoing with results expected by summer. The German federal government does not intend to implement general cuts to sickness benefits, according to a savings draft from Minister Nina Warken. The draft, obtained by Reuters, indicates that sickness benefits would only be reduced if an employment relationship ends during the benefit period. The proposal is part of a broader savings plan for statutory health insurance funds.

The German federal government has announced plans to increase tobacco taxes. A Munich-based institute reported that business confidence has reached its lowest level in six years, citing the Middle East conflict as a factor. According to the Munich-based IFO Institute, the budget process aims to prevent increases in social insurance contributions by adjusting other fiscal measures. Economist Rocholl noted that Germany faces a difficult economic situation where rising state expenditures are clashing with the increasing difficulty of generating new tax revenue. The budget formulation process remains complex due to these fiscal pressures. Patients may be required to pay at least 7.50 Euro per package, marking the first increase in such payments in over 20 years. The plan also includes reducing subsidies for dental prosthetics.

The United States is acting in a very restrictive manner and with the greatest severity.

A man's head reportedly exploded during a game of backgammon in a pub in Berlin-Schöneberg.

A district in Berlin historically housed industries that were undesirable or lacked space in the city, such as rope makers for shipbuilding. Due to its proximity to the harbor and the city's stance against prostitution within its walls, a red-light district also emerged in the area.

State elections in East Germany are underway, with a far-right party expected to perform strongly. The AfD political party reached 28.0% in the latest INSA/BILDAfD Sunday poll, a 1.5% increase. The CDU/CSU Union follows at 23.5%, while the SPD sits at 14.0%. The AfD party holds 27% of the vote in the latest Forsa poll for the Bundestag elections. The CDU/CSU follows at 22%, while the Greens, Die Linke, and SPD each hold between 12% and 15%. A recent Forsa survey indicates the AfD has expanded its lead in Germany. The party now holds a 5 percentage point advantage over the Union. The report also noted ongoing discussions regarding income tax relief for small and medium incomes, though financing remains unagreed upon.

Cycling lanes in Berlin have become significantly more congested due to increased use by cargo bikes and e-scooters. The lane infrastructure has not kept pace with the growing number of cyclists and vehicles, leading to more collisions. The lanes are described as 'fuller' and 'denser'.

Singer Herbert Grönemeyer is featured in a conversation with Nina Hoss, Toni Kroos, and Anke Engelke. He shares details about his successes and personal tragedies, including the death of his first wife. Grönemeyer is known for hits like 'Bochum' and 'Flugzeuge im Bauch'.