As Israel deals with a surge in cases caused by the Delta variant, health officials have suggested that up to half of new cases could be among the vaccinated.

Fully vaccinated people who come into contact with the Delta variant will be quarantined, according to Chezy Levy, the director-general of Israel's health ministry. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-eases-coronavirus-restrictions-amid-nationwide-vaccination-388778">Also read | Israel eases coronavirus restrictions amid nationwide vaccination</a> 
 
"Even though the numbers are low, the fact that this is reaching vaccinated people means ... that we are still checking how many vaccinated people have also been infected," Levy said, according to Haaretz.

On June 23, Israel gave health officials the authority to quarantine anyone who has been exposed to an extremely infectious variant of Covid-19, even if they have been vaccinated or have recovered from the sickness with supposed immunity.&nbsp;

The decision came after Prime Minister Naftali Bennett issued a warning on Tuesday about fresh Delta-related outbreaks, with daily infections rising following weeks of low levels because to Israel's unprecedented mass vaccination campaign.

If authorities feel they may have been in "close contact with a carrier of a severe virus strain," authorities can force vaccinated or previously infected people to self-isolate for up to 14 days under the amended health ministry regulations.&nbsp;

The number of new cases recorded every day in Israel has risen to above 100, the highest level since May.

According to Levy, the Delta variety is responsible for almost 70% of the cases.

As daily cases remained in the single digits, Israel began to relax its viral restrictions, terminating indoor masking last week.

As Israel deals with a surge in cases caused by the Delta variant, health officials have suggested that up to half of new cases could be among the vaccinated. Fully vaccinated people who come into contact with the Delta variant will be quarantined, according to Chezy Levy, the director-general of Israel's health ministry.

As Israel deals with a surge in cases caused by the Delta variant, health officials have suggested that up to half of new cases could be among the vaccinated. Fully vaccinated people who come into contact with the Delta variant will be quarantined, according to Chezy Levy, the director-general of Israel's health ministry. Also read | Israel eases coronavirus restrictions amid nationwide vaccination "Even though the numbers are low, the fact that this is reaching vaccinated people means ... that we are still checking how many vaccinated people have also been infected," Levy said, according to Haaretz. On June 23, Israel gave health officials the authority to quarantine anyone who has been exposed to an extremely infectious variant of Covid-19, even if they have been vaccinated or have recovered from the sickness with supposed immunity. The decision came after Prime Minister Naftali Bennett issued a warning on Tuesday about fresh Delta-related outbreaks, with daily infections rising following weeks of low levels because to Israel's unprecedented mass vaccination campaign. If authorities feel they may have been in "close contact with a carrier of a severe virus strain," authorities can force vaccinated or previously infected people to self-isolate for up to 14 days under the amended health ministry regulations. The number of new cases recorded every day in Israel has risen to above 100, the highest level since May. According to Levy, the Delta variety is responsible for almost 70% of the cases. As daily cases remained in the single digits, Israel began to relax its viral restrictions, terminating indoor masking last week.

COVID-19: Delta variant is infecting vaccinated people, says Israel

The issue of LGBTQ rights has divided European Union. Hungary is pushing a law that allegedly discriminates against LGBTQ. The Vatican is pushing Italy to drop a new law on gay rights. Even football has become embroiled in the debate. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: In Europe, a fight for LGBTQ rights

German Chancellor Angela Merkel criticised a new law in Hungary banning LGBTQ educational content for children as 'wrong'. The German leader said she saw it as a contradiction that single-sex partnerships are allowed in Hungary but education about them is restricted.

Angela Merkel condemns Hungary's new LGBTQ law as 'wrong'

Amid reopening among several countries in Europe, Chancellor Angela <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-chancellor-merkel-takes-moderna-vaccine-as-second-jab-after-astrazeneca-393194">Merkel </a>told Parliament that EU states should quarantine UK arrivals as it is being done in Germany.

“In our country, if you come from Great Britain, you have to go into quarantine - and that’s not the case in every European country, and that’s what I would like to see,” the German Chancellor told Parliament on Wednesday.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/angela-merkel-administered-with-moderna-jab-during-second-dose-after-having-astrazeneca-as-first-393414/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As concern grows about the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-all-you-need-to-know-about-delta-plus-variant-393450">Delta variant</a> in Europe, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) said it is "likely that the Delta variant will circulate extensively during the summer".

The ECDC warned that younger individuals were particularly at risk since they were slow to get <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazeneca-vaccine-effective-against-covid-19-variants-identified-in-india-393331">vaccinated</a>.

"The Delta variant is more transmissible than other circulating variants and we estimate that by the end of August it will represent 90 per cent" of new cases in the EU," the health agency said.

The agency said vaccination should be carried out at a "very high pace" in order to combat the spread of the Delta variant which experts say is 40 to 60 per cent more contagious than the Alpha variant (Β.1.1.7).

Andrea Ammon the director at ECDC called for speeding up of the second dose especially for vulnerable groups while revealing that those over 80 and over 60 still haven't been fully vaccinated in Europe.

The ECDC further said that any relaxation over the summer may lead to increased "hospitalisations and deaths" and may reach the same level as autumn last year if stringent measures are not applied by authorities.

Meanwhile, Ukraine reported the first two cases of the Delta variant(B.1.617.2), officials confirmed even as Portugal feared a fourth wave of virus attack due to the B.1.617.2 variant.

Lisbon has been hit hard with the Delta variant with 60 per cent cases reported. The capital city has banned travel with more restrictions on the anvil.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid reopening among several countries in Europe, Chancellor Angela Merkel told Parliament that EU states should quarantine UK arrivals as it is being done in Germany.

Amid reopening among several countries in Europe, Chancellor Angela Merkel told Parliament that EU states should quarantine UK arrivals as it is being done in Germany. “In our country, if you come from Great Britain, you have to go into quarantine - and that’s not the case in every European country, and that’s what I would like to see,” the German Chancellor told Parliament on Wednesday. Watch: As concern grows about the Delta variant in Europe, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) said it is "likely that the Delta variant will circulate extensively during the summer". The ECDC warned that younger individuals were particularly at risk since they were slow to get vaccinated. "The Delta variant is more transmissible than other circulating variants and we estimate that by the end of August it will represent 90 per cent" of new cases in the EU," the health agency said. The agency said vaccination should be carried out at a "very high pace" in order to combat the spread of the Delta variant which experts say is 40 to 60 per cent more contagious than the Alpha variant (Β.1.1.7). Andrea Ammon the director at ECDC called for speeding up of the second dose especially for vulnerable groups while revealing that those over 80 and over 60 still haven't been fully vaccinated in Europe. The ECDC further said that any relaxation over the summer may lead to increased "hospitalisations and deaths" and may reach the same level as autumn last year if stringent measures are not applied by authorities. Meanwhile, Ukraine reported the first two cases of the Delta variant(B.1.617.2), officials confirmed even as Portugal feared a fourth wave of virus attack due to the B.1.617.2 variant. Lisbon has been hit hard with the Delta variant with 60 per cent cases reported. The capital city has banned travel with more restrictions on the anvil. (With inputs from Agencies)

Europe health agency warns Delta variant rise; Portugal fears fourth wave

German chancellor Angela Merkel has received Moderna shot as her second dose of Coronavirus vaccine. Merkel was administered with AstraZeneca jab for her first dose. The 66-year-old took her first dose in April, more than two weeks after German authorities recommended the use of AstraZeneca jab only for people aged 60 and above.

Angela Merkel administered with Moderna jab during second dose after having AstraZeneca as first

German Chancellor Angela Merkel took a mixed jab on Tuesday as she&nbsp;received the Moderna coronavirus <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/windmill-dance-medical-experts-laugh-at-silly-post-vaccine-hack-393140">vaccine </a>after taking the AstraZeneca&nbsp;first dose in April.

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) had earlier suggested that mixing different vaccines can be effective.

However, the health body added that&nbsp;it lacks sufficient evidence on coronavirus shots to come to a successful conclusion.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/philippines-president-threatens-to-jail-those-who-refuse-covid-19-vaccine-393163/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Marco Cavaleri, head of Biological Health Threats and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-to-set-up-vaccine-tech-transfer-hub-in-south-africa-393132">Vaccines</a> Strategy at the EMA had said the organisation was closely monitoring the situation while adding that full trial data was necessary in order to make a complete&nbsp;assessment.

According to German authorities, at least 51 per cent of the population has received one jab of the vaccine.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;as Europe continues to reopen, the German Chancellor expressed concern over travel guidelines in the European Union warning that it might "come back to haunt us".

Portugal was earlier forced to delay its post-lockdown reopening after a surge in virus cases which was cited by the German Chancellor.

"We have made some good progress in recent months but aren't where I'd like the European Union to be," Merkel said.

The World Health Organization said on Tuesday that it was concerned over Europe easing virus restrictions due to Euro 2020 as the UK announced that thousands of spectators will be allowed for the semi-finals and final of the tournament to be played at Wembley stadium in London.

The British authorities said more than 60,000 spectators could fill the stadiums even as it battles the virus. The UK government had earlier delayed easing restrictions due to the surge in Delta variant across the country.

Denmark also witnessed a surge in COVID-19 cases amid the Euro football games in Copenhagen, reports claimed.

(With inputs from Agencies)

German Chancellor Angela Merkel took a mixed jab on Tuesday as she received the Moderna coronavirus vaccine after taking the AstraZeneca first dose in April. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) had earlier suggested that mixing different vaccines can be effective.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel took a mixed jab on Tuesday as she received the Moderna coronavirus vaccine after taking the AstraZeneca first dose in April. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) had earlier suggested that mixing different vaccines can be effective. However, the health body added that it lacks sufficient evidence on coronavirus shots to come to a successful conclusion. Watch: Marco Cavaleri, head of Biological Health Threats and Vaccines Strategy at the EMA had said the organisation was closely monitoring the situation while adding that full trial data was necessary in order to make a complete assessment. According to German authorities, at least 51 per cent of the population has received one jab of the vaccine. Meanwhile, as Europe continues to reopen, the German Chancellor expressed concern over travel guidelines in the European Union warning that it might "come back to haunt us". Portugal was earlier forced to delay its post-lockdown reopening after a surge in virus cases which was cited by the German Chancellor. "We have made some good progress in recent months but aren't where I'd like the European Union to be," Merkel said. The World Health Organization said on Tuesday that it was concerned over Europe easing virus restrictions due to Euro 2020 as the UK announced that thousands of spectators will be allowed for the semi-finals and final of the tournament to be played at Wembley stadium in London. The British authorities said more than 60,000 spectators could fill the stadiums even as it battles the virus. The UK government had earlier delayed easing restrictions due to the surge in Delta variant across the country. Denmark also witnessed a surge in COVID-19 cases amid the Euro football games in Copenhagen, reports claimed. (With inputs from Agencies)

German Chancellor Merkel takes Moderna vaccine as second jab after AstraZeneca

Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel on Wednesday quoted Russia as one the of biggest challenge for NATO. 'We must not overrate China and just need to find the right balance', She added. Chancellor Merkel is expected to meet US President Joe Biden in July to discuss China and Russia.

'Russia poses one of the biggest challenges for NATO': Angela Merkel

German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Saturday said that a "pragmatic solution" was required to sort out disagreements over part of the Brexit deal that covers border issue with Northern Ireland.

PM Boris Johnson has said that Britain will do "whatever it takes" to protect its territorial integrity in trade dispute with the European Union (EU).

The EU has to defend its common market, Merkel said, but on technical questions there could be a way forward in the dispute, she told a news conference during a Group of Seven leaders' summit.

"I have said that I favour a pragmatic solution for contractual agreements, because a cordial relationship is of utmost significance for Britain and the European Union," she said.

Merkel referred to conversation she had with Joe Biden and said that they agreed that Ukraine must continue to remain a transit country for Russian natural gas once Moscow completes Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline under the Baltic Sea.

The $11 billion pipeline will carry gas to Germany directly, something Washington fears could undermine Ukraine and increase Russia's influence over Europe.

Biden and Merkel are due to meet on July 15. The meet will take place in Washington.

The G7 sought on Saturday to counter China's growing influence by offering developing nations an infrastructure plan that would rival President Xi Jinping's multi-trillion-dollar Belt and Road initiative. [L5N2NU045]

Asked about the plan, Merkel said the G7 was not yet ready to specify how much financing could be made available.

"Our financing instruments often are not as quickly available as developing countries need them," she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Saturday said that a "pragmatic solution" was required to sort out disagreements over part of the Brexit deal that covers border issue with Northern Ireland.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Saturday said that a "pragmatic solution" was required to sort out disagreements over part of the Brexit deal that covers border issue with Northern Ireland. PM Boris Johnson has said that Britain will do "whatever it takes" to protect its territorial integrity in trade dispute with the European Union (EU). The EU has to defend its common market, Merkel said, but on technical questions there could be a way forward in the dispute, she told a news conference during a Group of Seven leaders' summit. "I have said that I favour a pragmatic solution for contractual agreements, because a cordial relationship is of utmost significance for Britain and the European Union," she said. Merkel referred to conversation she had with Joe Biden and said that they agreed that Ukraine must continue to remain a transit country for Russian natural gas once Moscow completes Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline under the Baltic Sea. The $11 billion pipeline will carry gas to Germany directly, something Washington fears could undermine Ukraine and increase Russia's influence over Europe. Biden and Merkel are due to meet on July 15. The meet will take place in Washington. The G7 sought on Saturday to counter China's growing influence by offering developing nations an infrastructure plan that would rival President Xi Jinping's multi-trillion-dollar Belt and Road initiative. [L5N2NU045] Asked about the plan, Merkel said the G7 was not yet ready to specify how much financing could be made available. "Our financing instruments often are not as quickly available as developing countries need them," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Merkel urges 'pragmatic' approach to solve Northern Ireland issue

German Chancellor Angela Merkel's CDU scored a convincing win in the final regional vote before the first general election without her at the helm of the party. The CDU won around 37%of the vote, well ahead of the second-place far-right party AfD on 21%.

Merkel's party wins last state poll before general election

The Danish Public Broadcaster has reported that Denmark's secret service helped the US spy on Angela Merkel and top European leaders. This revelation could create fresh troubles for US President Joe Biden.

Gravitas: Did Denmark help the US spy on Angela Merkel?

Denmark hosts several key landing stations for subsea internet cables to and from Sweden, Norway, Germany, Holland and Britain.

US used Danish cables to spy on Merkel, European countries

Germany and Norway inaugurated a new undersea cable Thursday that directly links the two countries' electricity networks, a project that has been described as a key step in Europe's effort to shift away from fossil fuels to renewable energy.

The 2-billion-euro ($2.4 billion) project, called Nordlink, will allow Germany to export excess electricity from its wind parks to Norway, where it can be stored in the Nordic nation's vast hydropower reservoirs.

During periods of little wind, electricity can be released from Norwegian reservoirs again to meet German demand.

''We're setting a milestone for the modern energy supply in Europe,''&nbsp;German Chancellor Angela Merkel said during a virtual ceremony to officially switch on the power link.

The 623-kilometer cable runs from Germany's northern state of Schleswig-Holstein under the North Sea to Tonstad in southern Norway. Operators say it can carry enough electricity to supply 3.6 million households at once.

The new system should help lower the price of electricity in Germany, which is relatively high compared to other European countries, said Claudia Kemfert, a senior energy expert at the German Institute for Economic Research.

Oil-rich Norway meets almost all of its electricity needs using renewable sources, and electricity from its hydropower facilities is comparatively cheap. By tapping into the Norwegian network, Germany can avoid building costly stand-by power plants of its own, Kemfert said.

''Nordlink is no replacement for the expansion of renewable energy here in Germany, but it can significantly help balance out fluctuations,''&nbsp;she said.

The German government recently announced that it aims to reduce the country's greenhouse gas emissions to net zero' by 2045. A massive expansion of wind and solar power generation will be required to meet the demands of its 83 million inhabitants and industry.

(With inputs from agencies)

Germany and Norway inaugurated a new undersea cable Thursday that directly links the two countries' electricity networks, a project that has been described as a key step in Europe's effort to shift away from fossil fuels to renewable energy.

Germany and Norway inaugurated a new undersea cable Thursday that directly links the two countries' electricity networks, a project that has been described as a key step in Europe's effort to shift away from fossil fuels to renewable energy. The 2-billion-euro ($2.4 billion) project, called Nordlink, will allow Germany to export excess electricity from its wind parks to Norway, where it can be stored in the Nordic nation's vast hydropower reservoirs. During periods of little wind, electricity can be released from Norwegian reservoirs again to meet German demand. ''We're setting a milestone for the modern energy supply in Europe,'' German Chancellor Angela Merkel said during a virtual ceremony to officially switch on the power link. The 623-kilometer cable runs from Germany's northern state of Schleswig-Holstein under the North Sea to Tonstad in southern Norway. Operators say it can carry enough electricity to supply 3.6 million households at once. The new system should help lower the price of electricity in Germany, which is relatively high compared to other European countries, said Claudia Kemfert, a senior energy expert at the German Institute for Economic Research. Oil-rich Norway meets almost all of its electricity needs using renewable sources, and electricity from its hydropower facilities is comparatively cheap. By tapping into the Norwegian network, Germany can avoid building costly stand-by power plants of its own, Kemfert said. ''Nordlink is no replacement for the expansion of renewable energy here in Germany, but it can significantly help balance out fluctuations,'' she said. The German government recently announced that it aims to reduce the country's greenhouse gas emissions to net zero' by 2045. A massive expansion of wind and solar power generation will be required to meet the demands of its 83 million inhabitants and industry. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany and Norway inaugurate undersea energy link worth $2 billion

EU&nbsp;leaders on Tuesday welcomed the introduction of a bloc-wide&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> pass that they hope will&nbsp;unlock&nbsp;a tourist surge this summer.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

The 27 member states want the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;Digital&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;Certificate, to be launched July 1, to turn the page on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> restrictions that have crimped Europeans' cherished freedom of movement.

<o:p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vaccine-passport-the-european-covid-certificate-a-users-guide-386729">Vaccine Passport: The European Covid certificate, a user's guide</a></o:p>

Coupled with a separate plan to let in fully vaccinated travellers from countries outside the&nbsp;EU, to be defined by the middle of June, Europe believes its vital tourist industry could claw back some of the losses racked up since the start of the pandemic.<o:p></o:p>

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen told a media conference after the&nbsp;summit&nbsp;that more than 300 million&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">COVID-19 vaccine</a> doses will have been delivered by the end of this week, rising to 400 million next month.

<o:p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-lines-up-covid-travel-pass-eiffel-tower-to-reopen-386873">EU lines up Covid travel pass, Eiffel Tower to reopen</a></o:p>

"If we continue like this, we have confidence that we will be able to safely reopen our societies," she said, adding the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;was on track to meet its goal of fully inoculating 70 per cent of adults by late July.<o:p></o:p>

"Progressively, we should return to the ability to move freely throughout the European Union," European Council President Charles Michel said.

<o:p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coming-soon-the-vaccine-passport-362262">Coming soon: The ‘Vaccine Passport’</a></o:p>

EU&nbsp;countries and the European Parliament struck an agreement last week on the legislation to come into force in mid-June for the&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;certificate. Von der Leyen said all the technological infrastructure would be ready by June 1.<o:p></o:p>

The leaders of Greece, Spain and Croatia, whose economies strongly rely on tourist spending, were particularly effusive about the common document.&nbsp;

<o:p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-mulls-vaccination-passports-to-bring-back-tourists-366038">European Union mulls 'vaccination passports' to bring back tourists</a></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

They all had wipe-out summer seasons last year, but are already starting to welcome back foreign travellers, ignoring Brussels' plea to coordinate at an&nbsp;EU&nbsp;level.<o:p></o:p>

QR code verification<o:p></o:p>

Luxembourg's prime minister, Xavier Bettel, pointed out that a scannable QR code on the certificates will stymie the "hugely copied" PDF files of test results or vaccinations that some people were using to cross borders.<o:p></o:p>

The&nbsp;EU's&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;certificate&nbsp;will show the bearer's vaccination status, or whether they have immunity from a&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;infection they have recovered from or the result of a&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;test.

<o:p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-plans-to-open-up-countries-to-more-foreign-tourists-this-summer-382579">EU plans to open up countries to more foreign tourists this summer</a></o:p>

Conscious that the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;has procured up to 4.4 billion vaccine doses over the next two years, far more than it needs for its population of 450 million, leaders have rallied to a pledge made at a&nbsp;G20&nbsp;summit&nbsp;in Rome last Friday to share 100 million doses to countries in need by the end of this year.<o:p></o:p>

Denmark and Sweden each promised three million doses from their stocks at the&nbsp;summit. Germany, Italy and France had already pledged higher amounts.

<o:p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-set-to-let-vaccinated-us-tourists-visit-this-summer-380444">EU set to let vaccinated US tourists visit this summer</a></o:p>

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said she also pushed leaders to agree to a mechanism to "react quickly and cohesively" if worrying new coronavirus variants popped up.<o:p></o:p>

The Brussels gathering of&nbsp;EU&nbsp;leaders on Tuesday also looked at ways to share out the burden on battling climate change, to meet the target of cutting emissions by 55 per cent over the rest of this decade.<o:p></o:p>

Von der Leyen's commission has been tasked with mapping out the next steps, including potentially unpopular ones such as slapping carbon taxes on cars and buildings.

<o:p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarus-faces-new-sanctions-from-west-over-forced-landing-of-plane-arrest-of-journalist-387190">Belarus faces new sanctions from West over forced landing of plane, arrest of journalist</a>&nbsp;</o:p>

The first day of the&nbsp;summit&nbsp;on Monday was overshadowed by Belarus, which sits just outside the&nbsp;EU's eastern borders, forcing down a Ryanair passenger plane the day before to arrest an opposition journalist and his companion who were on board.

<o:p>Also Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-leaders-call-for-sanctions-against-belarus-over-ryanair-plane-hijacking-arrest-of-journalist-387120">EU leaders call for sanctions against Belarus over Ryanair plane 'hijacking', arrest of journalist</a></o:p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-leaders-call-for-sanctions-against-belarus-over-ryanair-plane-hijacking-arrest-of-journalist-387120/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

EU&nbsp;leaders unanimously blasted the action and moved to cut Belarus out of European airspace as part of a package of sanctions that will be developed further.&nbsp;

EU leaders on Tuesday welcomed the introduction of a bloc-wide COVID-19 pass that they hope will unlock a tourist surge this summer. The 27 member states want the EU Digital Covid Certificate, to be launched July 1, to turn the page on coronavirus restrictions that have crimped Europeans' cherished freedom of movement.

EU leaders on Tuesday welcomed the introduction of a bloc-wide COVID-19 pass that they hope will unlock a tourist surge this summer. The 27 member states want the EU Digital Covid Certificate, to be launched July 1, to turn the page on coronavirus restrictions that have crimped Europeans' cherished freedom of movement. Also Read | Vaccine Passport: The European Covid certificate, a user's guide Coupled with a separate plan to let in fully vaccinated travellers from countries outside the EU, to be defined by the middle of June, Europe believes its vital tourist industry could claw back some of the losses racked up since the start of the pandemic. European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen told a media conference after the summit that more than 300 million COVID-19 vaccine doses will have been delivered by the end of this week, rising to 400 million next month. Also Read | EU lines up Covid travel pass, Eiffel Tower to reopen "If we continue like this, we have confidence that we will be able to safely reopen our societies," she said, adding the EU was on track to meet its goal of fully inoculating 70 per cent of adults by late July. "Progressively, we should return to the ability to move freely throughout the European Union," European Council President Charles Michel said. Also Read | Coming soon: The ‘Vaccine Passport’ EU countries and the European Parliament struck an agreement last week on the legislation to come into force in mid-June for the Covid certificate. Von der Leyen said all the technological infrastructure would be ready by June 1. The leaders of Greece, Spain and Croatia, whose economies strongly rely on tourist spending, were particularly effusive about the common document. Also Read | European Union mulls 'vaccination passports' to bring back tourists They all had wipe-out summer seasons last year, but are already starting to welcome back foreign travellers, ignoring Brussels' plea to coordinate at an EU level. QR code verification Luxembourg's prime minister, Xavier Bettel, pointed out that a scannable QR code on the certificates will stymie the "hugely copied" PDF files of test results or vaccinations that some people were using to cross borders. The EU's Covid certificate will show the bearer's vaccination status, or whether they have immunity from a Covid infection they have recovered from or the result of a Covid test. Also Read | EU plans to open up countries to more foreign tourists this summer Conscious that the EU has procured up to 4.4 billion vaccine doses over the next two years, far more than it needs for its population of 450 million, leaders have rallied to a pledge made at a G20 summit in Rome last Friday to share 100 million doses to countries in need by the end of this year. Denmark and Sweden each promised three million doses from their stocks at the summit. Germany, Italy and France had already pledged higher amounts. Also Read | EU set to let vaccinated US tourists visit this summer German Chancellor Angela Merkel said she also pushed leaders to agree to a mechanism to "react quickly and cohesively" if worrying new coronavirus variants popped up. The Brussels gathering of EU leaders on Tuesday also looked at ways to share out the burden on battling climate change, to meet the target of cutting emissions by 55 per cent over the rest of this decade. Von der Leyen's commission has been tasked with mapping out the next steps, including potentially unpopular ones such as slapping carbon taxes on cars and buildings. Also Read | Belarus faces new sanctions from West over forced landing of plane, arrest of journalist The first day of the summit on Monday was overshadowed by Belarus, which sits just outside the EU's eastern borders, forcing down a Ryanair passenger plane the day before to arrest an opposition journalist and his companion who were on board. Also Watch | EU leaders call for sanctions against Belarus over Ryanair plane 'hijacking', arrest of journalist EU leaders unanimously blasted the action and moved to cut Belarus out of European airspace as part of a package of sanctions that will be developed further.

EU summit welcomes Covid certificate to unlock travel

German Chancellor Angela Merkel warned against show of racist or anti-Semitic behaviour ahead of weekend pr-Palestinian rallies. German cities have seen pro-Palestinian rallies as the 11-day conflict raged on in West Asia between Israel and Palestinians.

"Those who bear hatred towards Jews in the street, those who incite racial hatred put themselves outside our Basic Law," Merkel declared in her weekly podcast.

"Such acts must be punished severely," she insisted.

German police made about 60 arrests last Saturday. Around 100 officers were hurt during the pro-Palestinian rallies in Berlin.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ceasefire-between-israel-and-gaza-holds-as-egyptian-mediators-eye-long-term-peace-386713">Ceasefire between Israel and Gaza holds as Egyptian mediators eye long-term peace</a>

Some participants at marches in towns across Germany shouted anti-Semitic slogans, which Merkel blasted as "unacceptable". Others burned Israeli flags and in one case stoned the entrance to a synagogue.

Merkel noted that Germany's constitution "guarantees the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.&nbsp; 
But it offers no place for attacks on people of a different confession, no place for violence, racism or denigration" of others and their beliefs.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

German Chancellor Angela Merkel warned against show of racist or anti-Semitic behaviour ahead of weekend pr-Palestinian rallies. German cities have seen pro-Palestinian rallies as the 11-day conflict raged on in West Asia between Israel and Palestinians.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel warned against show of racist or anti-Semitic behaviour ahead of weekend pr-Palestinian rallies. German cities have seen pro-Palestinian rallies as the 11-day conflict raged on in West Asia between Israel and Palestinians. "Those who bear hatred towards Jews in the street, those who incite racial hatred put themselves outside our Basic Law," Merkel declared in her weekly podcast. "Such acts must be punished severely," she insisted. German police made about 60 arrests last Saturday. Around 100 officers were hurt during the pro-Palestinian rallies in Berlin. Also Read | Ceasefire between Israel and Gaza holds as Egyptian mediators eye long-term peace Some participants at marches in towns across Germany shouted anti-Semitic slogans, which Merkel blasted as "unacceptable". Others burned Israeli flags and in one case stoned the entrance to a synagogue. Merkel noted that Germany's constitution "guarantees the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. But it offers no place for attacks on people of a different confession, no place for violence, racism or denigration" of others and their beliefs. (With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of pro-Palestinian protests, Merkel warns on anti-Semitism

Germany is pushing back against waivers for Wuhan virus vaccines. German Chancellor Angela Merkel has rejected the idea of a waiver. Does India have a Plan B? How can India unlock vaccine patents? WION’s Palki Sharma tells you about the three available options.

Gravitas: Angela Merkel rejects vaccine patent waivers

Germany&nbsp;must update its climate law by the end of next year to set out how it will bring carbon emissions down nearly to zero by 2050, its top court ruled on Thursday, siding with a young woman who argued rising sea levels would engulf her family farm.

The court concluded that a law passed in 2019 had failed to make sufficient provision for cuts beyond 2030, casting a shadow over a signature achievement of Chancellor Angela Merkel's final term in office.

"The challenged provisions do violate the freedoms of the complainants, some of whom are still very young," the court said in a statement. "The provisions irreversibly offload major emission reduction burdens onto periods after 2030."

Ministers said they would draw up the necessary legislation soon, with Economy Minister Peter Altmaier promising proposals next week.

Among the plaintiffs was Sophie Backsen, 22, daughter of a farming family on the North Sea island of Pellworm, who fears that rising sea levels would engulf her low-lying island, leaving her with no inheritance.

"We are super happy with the court's decision," she told a news conference. "Effective climate protection has to be implemented now and not in 10 years' time, when it'll be too late."

The law commits&nbsp;Germany&nbsp;to ensuring that by 2030 carbon dioxide emissions should be at least 55% lower than in 1990, and that almost no carbon dioxide be emitted by 2050.

The challenge was backed by environmental groups including Greenpeace and the Fridays for Future movement inspired by Swedish activist Greta Thunberg.

"The court has handed down a major and significant ruling," said Economy Minister Peter Altmaier in a tweet. "It is epoch-making for climate protection and the rights of young people. And it creates certainty for the economy."

The ruling was stark in the obligations it imposed on the government, said Roda Verheyen, a lawyer for the plaintiffs.

"The court focuses on the civil liberties of future generations, saying those rights are being infringed already today," she said. "This isn't vague, but a very clear decision about fundamental rights."

The ruling could also have political repercussions before an election in September that may see the environmentalist Greens participate in government.

Markus Soeder, premier of the southern state of Bavaria, said the ruling offered an opportunity that his conservative bloc should embrace.

"Don't duck away from this, but tackle it now," he said, adding the conservatives should set the pace on the issue.

In 2019, the Dutch supreme court also imposed&nbsp;tougher climate change regulation on its government, saying it had done too little to protect the low-lying country's citizens from threats to their "lives and wellbeing."

Germany must update its climate law by the end of next year to set out how it will bring carbon emissions down nearly to zero by 2050, its top court ruled on Thursday, siding with a young woman who argued rising sea levels would engulf her family farm.

Germany must update its climate law by the end of next year to set out how it will bring carbon emissions down nearly to zero by 2050, its top court ruled on Thursday, siding with a young woman who argued rising sea levels would engulf her family farm. The court concluded that a law passed in 2019 had failed to make sufficient provision for cuts beyond 2030, casting a shadow over a signature achievement of Chancellor Angela Merkel's final term in office. "The challenged provisions do violate the freedoms of the complainants, some of whom are still very young," the court said in a statement. "The provisions irreversibly offload major emission reduction burdens onto periods after 2030." Ministers said they would draw up the necessary legislation soon, with Economy Minister Peter Altmaier promising proposals next week. Among the plaintiffs was Sophie Backsen, 22, daughter of a farming family on the North Sea island of Pellworm, who fears that rising sea levels would engulf her low-lying island, leaving her with no inheritance. "We are super happy with the court's decision," she told a news conference. "Effective climate protection has to be implemented now and not in 10 years' time, when it'll be too late." The law commits Germany to ensuring that by 2030 carbon dioxide emissions should be at least 55% lower than in 1990, and that almost no carbon dioxide be emitted by 2050. The challenge was backed by environmental groups including Greenpeace and the Fridays for Future movement inspired by Swedish activist Greta Thunberg. "The court has handed down a major and significant ruling," said Economy Minister Peter Altmaier in a tweet. "It is epoch-making for climate protection and the rights of young people. And it creates certainty for the economy." The ruling was stark in the obligations it imposed on the government, said Roda Verheyen, a lawyer for the plaintiffs. "The court focuses on the civil liberties of future generations, saying those rights are being infringed already today," she said. "This isn't vague, but a very clear decision about fundamental rights." The ruling could also have political repercussions before an election in September that may see the environmentalist Greens participate in government. Markus Soeder, premier of the southern state of Bavaria, said the ruling offered an opportunity that his conservative bloc should embrace. "Don't duck away from this, but tackle it now," he said, adding the conservatives should set the pace on the issue. In 2019, the Dutch supreme court also imposed tougher climate change regulation on its government, saying it had done too little to protect the low-lying country's citizens from threats to their "lives and wellbeing."

Germany must tighten climate law to protect young people's future, court rules

The biggest headline in India is oxygen shortage and it's serious as patients are being turned away from hospitals.

The government has banned the supply of oxygen for industrial purposes and this stock is now being diverted to hospitals.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-angela-merkel-says-europe-allowed-india-to-become-a-pharma-hub-379603/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Usually, India's healthcare facilities consume just 15 per cent of the country's oxygen supply, but during this second wave, oxygen supply to healthcare facilities has gone up to nearly 90 per cent.

Reports say 7,500 metric tonnes of oxygen is being diverted for medical use.

But German Chancellor Angela Merkel sees this surge as an opportunity to kick an ally down.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-india-troubled-with-fresh-covid-wave-a-drug-and-therapy-bring-hope-379586">As India troubled with fresh Covid wave, a drug and therapy bring hope</a>

Merkel was discussing the future of Europe today and she said Europe had not treated its pharma industry well.

Then, she pivoted to India, saying she's worried about how India's second wave will impact the delivery of "pharmaceutical products" to Germany.

Then she took a dig at India's status as a leading exporter of medical goods.

She said Europe had allowed India to become "such a large pharmaceutical producer".

"India has become a major pharmaceutical producer and we expect to honour its promises and if it can't, we will have to rethink," Merkel said.&nbsp;

The German chancellor said "Europe will have to rethink," but here's something Europe should think about first.

In 2018, India exported 229 million dollars worth of pharmaceuticals to Germany.

When Europe became the global hotspot in the pandemic last year, it was India that shared life-saving medicines and supplies.

And now when India is fighting a crushing surge, the German chancellor wants New Delhi to think of Berlin first.

It is a perfect example of Western entitlement.

But, it's not just foreign partners who are letting India down, domestic politics is hurting the fight against the virus.

Today, the Indian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi </a>held a meeting with chief ministers of 11 states.

The discussions were supposed to happen behind closed doors, but one leader broke protocol.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal decided to share his discussions with the prime minister with the press.

Kejriwal's statement was beamed by the media.

When Modi was made aware of this, he interrupted Kejriwal to object.

Politics is debilitating in the best of times and in a pandemic, it can be deadly.

The second wave is taking lives and India is going to need all the help it can get.&nbsp;

And there have been some offers of help.&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron has sent this message through his ambassador in New Delhi.

"I want to send a message of solidarity to the Indian people, facing a resurgence of COVID-19 cases. France is with you in this struggle, which spares no one. We stand ready to provide our support," Macron said.

China's foreign ministry issued a statement today, saying: "The virus is a common enemy" and "China is willing to provide the necessary support and help".

The spokesperson didn't go into the specifics of China's offer and the Indian government hasn't issued any response.

They should think twice before accepting this offer.

Last year China offered supplies and the world was left complaining about faulty test kits and equipment.

We can't afford mistakes this time.

The biggest headline in India is oxygen shortage and it's serious as patients are being turned away from hospitals. The government has banned the supply of oxygen for industrial purposes and this stock is now being diverted to hospitals.

The biggest headline in India is oxygen shortage and it's serious as patients are being turned away from hospitals. The government has banned the supply of oxygen for industrial purposes and this stock is now being diverted to hospitals. Watch | Usually, India's healthcare facilities consume just 15 per cent of the country's oxygen supply, but during this second wave, oxygen supply to healthcare facilities has gone up to nearly 90 per cent. Reports say 7,500 metric tonnes of oxygen is being diverted for medical use. But German Chancellor Angela Merkel sees this surge as an opportunity to kick an ally down. Also read | As India troubled with fresh Covid wave, a drug and therapy bring hope Merkel was discussing the future of Europe today and she said Europe had not treated its pharma industry well. Then, she pivoted to India, saying she's worried about how India's second wave will impact the delivery of "pharmaceutical products" to Germany. Then she took a dig at India's status as a leading exporter of medical goods. She said Europe had allowed India to become "such a large pharmaceutical producer". "India has become a major pharmaceutical producer and we expect to honour its promises and if it can't, we will have to rethink," Merkel said. The German chancellor said "Europe will have to rethink," but here's something Europe should think about first. In 2018, India exported 229 million dollars worth of pharmaceuticals to Germany. When Europe became the global hotspot in the pandemic last year, it was India that shared life-saving medicines and supplies. And now when India is fighting a crushing surge, the German chancellor wants New Delhi to think of Berlin first. It is a perfect example of Western entitlement. But, it's not just foreign partners who are letting India down, domestic politics is hurting the fight against the virus. Today, the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with chief ministers of 11 states. The discussions were supposed to happen behind closed doors, but one leader broke protocol. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal decided to share his discussions with the prime minister with the press. Kejriwal's statement was beamed by the media. When Modi was made aware of this, he interrupted Kejriwal to object. Politics is debilitating in the best of times and in a pandemic, it can be deadly. The second wave is taking lives and India is going to need all the help it can get. And there have been some offers of help. French President Emmanuel Macron has sent this message through his ambassador in New Delhi. "I want to send a message of solidarity to the Indian people, facing a resurgence of COVID-19 cases. France is with you in this struggle, which spares no one. We stand ready to provide our support," Macron said. China's foreign ministry issued a statement today, saying: "The virus is a common enemy" and "China is willing to provide the necessary support and help". The spokesperson didn't go into the specifics of China's offer and the Indian government hasn't issued any response. They should think twice before accepting this offer. Last year China offered supplies and the world was left complaining about faulty test kits and equipment. We can't afford mistakes this time.

Some partners disappoint, others show solidarity when India gasps for oxygen

As India struggles with the second wave, Angela Merkel is worried about what will happen to exports of pharmaceutical products to Europe. The German Chancellor has said Europe allowed India to become "such a large pharmaceutical producer". WION’s Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Angela Merkel says Europe "Allowed India" to become a pharma hub

Germany: Police clash with protesters as thousands demonstrate against new amendment

German Chancellor Angela Merkel received her first dose of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine on Friday (April 16). Her spokesman made the announcement on Twitter.

"I am happy that I received the first vaccination with AstraZeneca," the Twitter post quoted Merkel, 66, as saying.

"Vaccinations are the key to overcoming the pandemic," she added in the quote.

AstraZeneca vaccine has been in news all over due to many cases of blood clot formation after administering vaccine dose

Questions over the safety of the AstraZeneca vaccine as well as another viral vector one made by Johnson &amp; Johnson threaten to undermine public confidence in the low-cost shots, which authorities had been counting on in the fight against a pandemic that has claimed more than 3 million lives worldwide.

Finance Minister Olaf Scholz also received a first shot of AstraZeneca's vaccine earlier on Friday.

Earlier on Friday, Merkel urged lawmakers at the German Parliament to approve new powers that would allow her to force coronavirus lockdowns and curfews on areas with high infection rates, saying a majority of Germans were in favour of stricter measures.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

German Chancellor Angela Merkel received her first dose of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine on Friday (April 16). Her spokesman made the announcement on Twitter. "I am happy that I received the first vaccination with AstraZeneca," the Twitter post quoted Merkel, 66, as saying.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel received her first dose of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine on Friday (April 16). Her spokesman made the announcement on Twitter. "I am happy that I received the first vaccination with AstraZeneca," the Twitter post quoted Merkel, 66, as saying. "Vaccinations are the key to overcoming the pandemic," she added in the quote. AstraZeneca vaccine has been in news all over due to many cases of blood clot formation after administering vaccine dose Questions over the safety of the AstraZeneca vaccine as well as another viral vector one made by Johnson & Johnson threaten to undermine public confidence in the low-cost shots, which authorities had been counting on in the fight against a pandemic that has claimed more than 3 million lives worldwide. Finance Minister Olaf Scholz also received a first shot of AstraZeneca's vaccine earlier on Friday. Earlier on Friday, Merkel urged lawmakers at the German Parliament to approve new powers that would allow her to force coronavirus lockdowns and curfews on areas with high infection rates, saying a majority of Germans were in favour of stricter measures. (With inputs from agencies)

Angela Merkel receives first dose of AstraZeneca COVID vaccine

Kremlin on Friday urged French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel to ask Ukraine to adhere to ceasefire agreements in its conflicts with pro-Russian separatists. Both Macron and Merkel are due to hold talks with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky in a show of support.

Relations between Ukraine and Russia have increasingly come under strain due to Russian troop buildup on the Ukraine-Russia border and situation in Donbass region of Ukraine.

The build-up on the northern and eastern borders, as well as on the Crimean peninsula annexed by Moscow in 2014, comes amid a spike in violence along the front line between pro-Russia separatists and Ukrainian forces in the east of the country.

The German and French leaders should communicate to the Ukrainian leadership the "need to decisively stop any provocative actions on the contact line and emphasise the need for an unconditional observance of the ceasefire regime," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

"There are fewer reports of ceasefire violations coming, and indeed the number of violations has decreased," Peskov noted.&nbsp;

But he added that it was necessary to continue "scrupulously monitoring the situation".

Ukraine's foreign minister said earlier this week that Russia was "openly threatening Ukraine with war" and vowed a coordinated military response with its allies to aggression orchestrated by Moscow.

The fresh bout of clashes in eastern Ukraine effectively ended a ceasefire agreed last July that ushered in a period of relative calm to the conflict.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Kremlin on Friday urged French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel to ask Ukraine to adhere to ceasefire agreements in its conflicts with pro-Russian separatists.

Kremlin on Friday urged French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel to ask Ukraine to adhere to ceasefire agreements in its conflicts with pro-Russian separatists. Both Macron and Merkel are due to hold talks with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky in a show of support. Relations between Ukraine and Russia have increasingly come under strain due to Russian troop buildup on the Ukraine-Russia border and situation in Donbass region of Ukraine. The build-up on the northern and eastern borders, as well as on the Crimean peninsula annexed by Moscow in 2014, comes amid a spike in violence along the front line between pro-Russia separatists and Ukrainian forces in the east of the country. The German and French leaders should communicate to the Ukrainian leadership the "need to decisively stop any provocative actions on the contact line and emphasise the need for an unconditional observance of the ceasefire regime," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. "There are fewer reports of ceasefire violations coming, and indeed the number of violations has decreased," Peskov noted. But he added that it was necessary to continue "scrupulously monitoring the situation". Ukraine's foreign minister said earlier this week that Russia was "openly threatening Ukraine with war" and vowed a coordinated military response with its allies to aggression orchestrated by Moscow. The fresh bout of clashes in eastern Ukraine effectively ended a ceasefire agreed last July that ushered in a period of relative calm to the conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

Ease Ukraine's 'provocative actions', Russia urges Macron and Merkel

Germany is suspending routine use of the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine for people aged below 60 because of a risk of rare blood clots. The decision was taken by the country's health minister after an emergency meeting.

Germany halts use of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine for under-60s

German Chancellor Angela Merkel’s party continue to lose support in the country, a poll revealed on Sunday. A national election is due in the country in September, and the Greens appear to be closing in on Merkel.

A poll by Kantar shows that support Christian Democrats (CDU) - Merkel’s party, and the Bavarian CSU sister party dropped to 25 per cent. Together, the parties are called the “union”.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/germany-chancellor-merkels-party-suffers-clear-defeat-in-two-german-state-elections-370486/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Fall of percentage points for the union builds on the ongoing decline for the party recorded over four consecutive weeks. Such decline in support for the party was earlier seen in March 2020.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/as-biden-meets-eu-leaders-merkel-calls-for-increased-domestic-vaccine-production-373129" hreflang="en">As Biden meets EU leaders, Merkel calls for increased domestic vaccine production</a>

Earlier this month, Merkel’s party lost two state elections, mostly owing to the pandemic response of the government.

"There is a change of mood in the country," Bavarian premier and CSU leader Markus Soeder, in line to be the next chancellor candidate for conservatives, said in an interview to Bild am Sonntag newspaper. "The Union must show that it still has strength and ideas and is not exhausted and worn out. It needs new beginnings now”, he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/german-chancellor-angela-merkels-party-suffers-heavy-losses-in-state-polls-370469" hreflang="en">German Chancellor Angela Merkel's party suffers heavy losses in state polls</a>

Support for Greens in the country rose by 1 percentage points to 23, as per the Kantar poll, which took into account 1,447 voters between March 18-24.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel’s party continue to lose support in the country, a poll revealed on Sunday. A national election is due in the country in September, and the Greens appear to be closing in on Merkel.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel’s party continue to lose support in the country, a poll revealed on Sunday. A national election is due in the country in September, and the Greens appear to be closing in on Merkel. A poll by Kantar shows that support Christian Democrats (CDU) - Merkel’s party, and the Bavarian CSU sister party dropped to 25 per cent. Together, the parties are called the “union”. Fall of percentage points for the union builds on the ongoing decline for the party recorded over four consecutive weeks. Such decline in support for the party was earlier seen in March 2020. Also read: As Biden meets EU leaders, Merkel calls for increased domestic vaccine production Earlier this month, Merkel’s party lost two state elections, mostly owing to the pandemic response of the government. "There is a change of mood in the country," Bavarian premier and CSU leader Markus Soeder, in line to be the next chancellor candidate for conservatives, said in an interview to Bild am Sonntag newspaper. "The Union must show that it still has strength and ideas and is not exhausted and worn out. It needs new beginnings now”, he added. Also read: German Chancellor Angela Merkel's party suffers heavy losses in state polls Support for Greens in the country rose by 1 percentage points to 23, as per the Kantar poll, which took into account 1,447 voters between March 18-24.

Support for Angela Merkel's party falls further in Germany, new poll reveals

angela-merkel

Angela Merkel, News on Angela Merkel, stories on Angela Merkel, articles on Angela Merkel, Angela Merkel stories at Wion, Angela Merkel news, Angela Merkel latest news

angela merkel

COVID-19: Delta variant is infecting vaccinated people, says Israel

Gravitas: In Europe, a fight for LGBTQ rights

Angela Merkel condemns Hungary's new LGBTQ law as 'wrong'

Europe health agency warns Delta variant rise; Portugal fears fourth wave

Angela Merkel administered with Moderna jab during second dose after having AstraZeneca as first

German Chancellor Merkel takes Moderna vaccine as second jab after AstraZeneca

'Russia poses one of the biggest challenges for NATO': Angela Merkel

Merkel urges 'pragmatic' approach to solve Northern Ireland issue

Merkel's party wins last state poll before general election

Gravitas: Did Denmark help the US spy on Angela Merkel?

US used Danish cables to spy on Merkel, European countries

Germany and Norway inaugurate undersea energy link worth $2 billion

EU summit welcomes Covid certificate to unlock travel

Ahead of pro-Palestinian protests, Merkel warns on anti-Semitism

Gravitas: Angela Merkel rejects vaccine patent waivers

Germany must tighten climate law to protect young people's future, court rules

Some partners disappoint, others show solidarity when India gasps for oxygen

Gravitas: Angela Merkel says Europe "Allowed India" to become a pharma hub

Germany: Police clash with protesters as thousands demonstrate against new amendment

Angela Merkel receives first dose of AstraZeneca COVID vaccine

Ease Ukraine's 'provocative actions', Russia urges Macron and Merkel

Germany halts use of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine for under-60s

Germany halts use of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine for under-60s

Support for Angela Merkel's party falls further in Germany, new poll reveals