The European countries are now starting to raise their voices against the distribution of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine </a>and a slowed down rollout of the vaccines.

Talking about the problem of low rollout, the German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the European Union (EU) will have to figure out how to produce more vaccines on the European soil since she believes, the bloc's supply problems are more to do with lack of production capacity than with under-ordering.

"British production sites are manufacturing for Britain and the United States is not exporting, so we are reliant on what we can make in Europe," she said before the EU leaders' summit, scheduled on Thursday. "We have to assume that the virus, with its mutations, may be occupying us for a long time to come so the question goes far beyond this year."

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I have presented to EU leaders the state of play on: 
 
Vaccines delivery &amp; vaccination in the EU 
Expectations regarding deliveries in the 2nd quarter 
Exports of vaccines from the EU to the rest of the world 
 
Together we will ensure that Europeans get their fair share of vaccines. <a href="https://t.co/8KCoK9ywU2">pic.twitter.com/8KCoK9ywU2</a>
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1375065964904075264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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She also warned the experts against not supplying vaccines to other parts of the world as she believes less supply of vaccines can lead to the birth of new mutations which may turn out to be vaccine-resistant.

"Because we can clearly see: British manufacturing plants manufacture for Great Britain, the US aren’t exporting anything, and therefore we rely on what can be produced in Europe and we have to expect this virus will preoccupy us for a long time," she said.

Her statement has come at a time when the US President, Joe Biden, will be meeting the 27 EU leaders virtually in a bid to mend ties with the EU, after four years of sour relations under the Trump administration.

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Looking forward to our discussions with EU leaders today: 
 
• Speeding up vaccination rollout 
• Forging the new 🇪🇺🇺🇸 agenda with <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoeBiden</a> 
• Encouraging Turkey to engage with the EU constructively 
• Addressing challenges posed by Russia <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EUCO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EUCO</a> <a href="https://t.co/M3amBY5rCX">pic.twitter.com/M3amBY5rCX</a>
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1375062168605970437?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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While Biden's appearance will be a good distraction, the EU leaders will still be focusing on their frustrations related to the slow sleep of vaccine rollout.

The EU leaders are angry that the UK-based pharma company AstraZeneca has not been able to fulfil the set delivery targets for Europe, while the UK has had smoother supplies.

The European countries are now starting to raise their voices against the distribution of coronavirus vaccine and a slowed down rollout of the vaccines. Talking about the problem of low rollout, the German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the European Union (EU) will have to figure out how to produce more vaccines on the European soil since she believes, the bloc's supply problems are more to do with lack of production capacity than with under-ordering.

The European countries are now starting to raise their voices against the distribution of coronavirus vaccine and a slowed down rollout of the vaccines. Talking about the problem of low rollout, the German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the European Union (EU) will have to figure out how to produce more vaccines on the European soil since she believes, the bloc's supply problems are more to do with lack of production capacity than with under-ordering. "British production sites are manufacturing for Britain and the United States is not exporting, so we are reliant on what we can make in Europe," she said before the EU leaders' summit, scheduled on Thursday. "We have to assume that the virus, with its mutations, may be occupying us for a long time to come so the question goes far beyond this year." I have presented to EU leaders the state of play on: Vaccines delivery & vaccination in the EU Expectations regarding deliveries in the 2nd quarter Exports of vaccines from the EU to the rest of the world Together we will ensure that Europeans get their fair share of vaccines. pic.twitter.com/8KCoK9ywU2 — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) March 25, 2021 × She also warned the experts against not supplying vaccines to other parts of the world as she believes less supply of vaccines can lead to the birth of new mutations which may turn out to be vaccine-resistant. "Because we can clearly see: British manufacturing plants manufacture for Great Britain, the US aren’t exporting anything, and therefore we rely on what can be produced in Europe and we have to expect this virus will preoccupy us for a long time," she said. Her statement has come at a time when the US President, Joe Biden, will be meeting the 27 EU leaders virtually in a bid to mend ties with the EU, after four years of sour relations under the Trump administration. Looking forward to our discussions with EU leaders today: • Speeding up vaccination rollout • Forging the new 🇪🇺🇺🇸 agenda with @POTUS @JoeBiden • Encouraging Turkey to engage with the EU constructively • Addressing challenges posed by Russia #EUCO pic.twitter.com/M3amBY5rCX — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) March 25, 2021 × While Biden's appearance will be a good distraction, the EU leaders will still be focusing on their frustrations related to the slow sleep of vaccine rollout. The EU leaders are angry that the UK-based pharma company AstraZeneca has not been able to fulfil the set delivery targets for Europe, while the UK has had smoother supplies.

As Biden meets EU leaders, Merkel calls for increased domestic vaccine production

German Chancellor Angela <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/merkel-warns-coronavirus-pandemic-risks-undoing-gains-for-women-368501">Merkel's</a> Christian Democratic Union (CDU)&nbsp;suffered clear defeats in two German state elections on Sunday.

Watch:

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The setback comes just six months before a national vote which will decide who will succeed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-chancellor-angela-merkel-urges-fair-distribution-of-coronavirus-vaccine-359494">Merkel </a>, who has led the country for the past 16 years. The Christian Democrats slumped to record defeats in two regional votes after a muddled coronavirus response.

In Rhineland-Palatinate, the left-leaning Social Democrats came first with 35.5 per cent of the vote ahead of the CDU.

In Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany’s only green party governor, Winfried Kretschmann, has become popular with centrist voters after ten years running a region that is home to automakers like Daimler and Porsche.

German voters have used the state elections to vent their annoyance amid discontent over a sluggish start to Germany's vaccination drive. The coronavirus restrictions are still in place and infections are on the rise once again.

Amid the confusion, the CDU has been hit over the past two weeks by allegations that two lawmakers profited from deals to procure masks early in the pandemic.

"We see that the results in the two different regional elections differ a lot. But we see the big support to the incumbent heads of these regional governments, Malu Dreyer and Winfried Kretschmann especially in Baden-Wuerttemberg, it is his own personal success. There was no mood for changing parties, in so far it was a confirmation of the incumbent state prime minister but I have to add that this wasn't the first time it happened. We saw this in different regional elections as well," Paul Ziemiack, CDU&nbsp;general secretary, said.

The CDU has seen its national popularity wane from 40 per cent last June when Germany was widely praised for its response to the coronavirus pandemic to around 33 per cent this month.

Merkel, in power since 2005, is not seeking re-election at the national vote and her Christian Democratic Union is already missing the "Merkel bonus" she has brought them with four consecutive national <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-as-merkel-steps-down-whats-next-for-europe-357958">election</a> victories.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel's Christian Democratic Union (CDU) suffered clear defeats in two German state elections on Sunday. Watch: The setback comes just six months before a national vote which will decide who will succeed Merkel , who has led the country for the past 16 years.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel's Christian Democratic Union (CDU) suffered clear defeats in two German state elections on Sunday. Watch: The setback comes just six months before a national vote which will decide who will succeed Merkel , who has led the country for the past 16 years. The Christian Democrats slumped to record defeats in two regional votes after a muddled coronavirus response. In Rhineland-Palatinate, the left-leaning Social Democrats came first with 35.5 per cent of the vote ahead of the CDU. In Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany’s only green party governor, Winfried Kretschmann, has become popular with centrist voters after ten years running a region that is home to automakers like Daimler and Porsche. German voters have used the state elections to vent their annoyance amid discontent over a sluggish start to Germany's vaccination drive. The coronavirus restrictions are still in place and infections are on the rise once again. Amid the confusion, the CDU has been hit over the past two weeks by allegations that two lawmakers profited from deals to procure masks early in the pandemic. "We see that the results in the two different regional elections differ a lot. But we see the big support to the incumbent heads of these regional governments, Malu Dreyer and Winfried Kretschmann especially in Baden-Wuerttemberg, it is his own personal success. There was no mood for changing parties, in so far it was a confirmation of the incumbent state prime minister but I have to add that this wasn't the first time it happened. We saw this in different regional elections as well," Paul Ziemiack, CDU general secretary, said. The CDU has seen its national popularity wane from 40 per cent last June when Germany was widely praised for its response to the coronavirus pandemic to around 33 per cent this month. Merkel, in power since 2005, is not seeking re-election at the national vote and her Christian Democratic Union is already missing the "Merkel bonus" she has brought them with four consecutive national election victories.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel's party suffers heavy losses in state polls

German Chancellor Angela Merkel warned on Saturday that the pandemic risked rolling back progress made on gender equality, as women take on the lion's share of childcare in lockdown and are more likely to work in at-risk jobs.&nbsp;

"We have to make sure that the pandemic does not lead us to fall back into old gender patterns we thought we had overcome," Merkel said in a video message ahead of International Women's Day on March 8.&nbsp;

Women have been disproportionately affected by the health crisis, she said, while being underrepresented in decision-making positions.&nbsp;

"Once again it's more often women who have to master the balancing act between homeschooling, childcare and their own jobs," said the veteran leader.&nbsp;

Women also outnumber men in care professions at a time when those jobs are "particularly challenging".&nbsp;

"More than 75 per cent of those working in the health sector are women, from doctor's offices and hospitals, to labs and pharmacies," Merkel said -- yet women account for barely 30 per cent of management positions in those areas.&nbsp;

"It cannot be that women are to a large extent carrying our society yet at the same time are not equally involved in important political, economic and societal decisions," she added.&nbsp;

Merkel welcomed recent legislation requiring listed German companies to include more women on their executive boards.&nbsp;

But she said more should be done to support women, including through expanding childcare facilities and equal pay.&nbsp;

"Women must finally earn the same as men," she said.&nbsp;

Germany has one of the European Union's largest gender pay gaps, with women earning on average 19 per cent less than men in 2019 -- partly because many German women work part-time.&nbsp;

The gap narrows to six per cent when comparing men and women in the same jobs.&nbsp;

Merkel's warnings were echoed in the EU's annual report on gender equality released earlier this week.&nbsp;

The study found that the pandemic "has exacerbated existing inequalities between women and men in almost all areas of life".&nbsp;

On top of increased childcare burdens from school and nursery closures, it said women were also more likely to work in low-paid jobs in the services sector worst affected by the shutdowns, leaving them at higher risk of unemployment.&nbsp;

It could "take years, or even decades" to overcome the gender setbacks caused by the pandemic, it said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

German Chancellor Angela Merkel warned on Saturday that the pandemic risked rolling back progress made on gender equality, as women take on the lion's share of childcare in lockdown and are more likely to work in at-risk jobs.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel warned on Saturday that the pandemic risked rolling back progress made on gender equality, as women take on the lion's share of childcare in lockdown and are more likely to work in at-risk jobs. "We have to make sure that the pandemic does not lead us to fall back into old gender patterns we thought we had overcome," Merkel said in a video message ahead of International Women's Day on March 8. Women have been disproportionately affected by the health crisis, she said, while being underrepresented in decision-making positions. "Once again it's more often women who have to master the balancing act between homeschooling, childcare and their own jobs," said the veteran leader. Women also outnumber men in care professions at a time when those jobs are "particularly challenging". "More than 75 per cent of those working in the health sector are women, from doctor's offices and hospitals, to labs and pharmacies," Merkel said -- yet women account for barely 30 per cent of management positions in those areas. "It cannot be that women are to a large extent carrying our society yet at the same time are not equally involved in important political, economic and societal decisions," she added. Merkel welcomed recent legislation requiring listed German companies to include more women on their executive boards. But she said more should be done to support women, including through expanding childcare facilities and equal pay. "Women must finally earn the same as men," she said. Germany has one of the European Union's largest gender pay gaps, with women earning on average 19 per cent less than men in 2019 -- partly because many German women work part-time. The gap narrows to six per cent when comparing men and women in the same jobs. Merkel's warnings were echoed in the EU's annual report on gender equality released earlier this week. The study found that the pandemic "has exacerbated existing inequalities between women and men in almost all areas of life". On top of increased childcare burdens from school and nursery closures, it said women were also more likely to work in low-paid jobs in the services sector worst affected by the shutdowns, leaving them at higher risk of unemployment. It could "take years, or even decades" to overcome the gender setbacks caused by the pandemic, it said. (With inputs from agencies)

Merkel warns coronavirus pandemic risks undoing gains for women  

German Chancellor Angela Merkel in a conversation with Iran's leader Hassan Rouhani tells that 'Iran should return to nuclear deal'. Merkel's spokesman Steffen Seibert said the German leader told Rouhani she was concerned that Iran was continuing to breach its commitments under the deal

'Iran should return to nuclear deal', tells Angela Merkel to Hassan Rouhani

Germany Chancellor Angela Merkel has promised that the lockdown will not last a day longer than necessary. Merkel told the Parliament that lockdown extensions were important to avoid the third wave of COVID-19.

COVID-19: Germany Chancellor Merkel says 'lockdown will not be extended further'

Germany, Poland and Sweden have condemned Russia's&nbsp;expulsion of&nbsp;diplomats from the three European countries for allegedly taking part in protests in support of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei&nbsp;Navalny.

Navalny, President Vladimir Putin's most prominent critic, was jailed this week for almost three years for parole violations he calls trumped-up, a move the West condemned.

He was arrested on January&nbsp;17 on his return from treatment in Germany, where he was flown in August after falling ill from what German officials concluded was poisoning with a military-grade nerve agent. The Kremlin has questioned whether&nbsp;Navalny&nbsp;was poisoned and denied blame for his illness.

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German&nbsp;Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Friday&nbsp;"We consider these expulsions to be unjustified. We believe it is yet another aspect that can be observed right now of Russia being quite far from the rule of law."

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said earlier that the decision by Moscow to declare the diplomats from Poland, Germany and Sweden persona non grata would "not go unanswered".

Maas added that the German diplomat concerned was "solely fulfilling his duty... of informing himself about developments on the ground by lawful means".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-expels-diplomats-from-european-nations-over-navalny-protests-361629" hreflang="en">Russia expels diplomats from European nations over Navalny protests</a>

France's Macron also took Germany's stance, saying he was "completely in line and in solidarity" with his EU counterpart on the issue.

He similarly condemned "most firmly" Russia's decision to expel the European diplomats.

The Polish foreign ministry said in a statement that it had summoned Russia's ambassador to Warsaw after Russia earlier Friday said it was expelling diplomats from Poland, Germany and Sweden.

The foreign ministry said the decision "will contribute to the further deepening of the crisis in the bilateral relations between our countries".

The ministry said the diplomat in question was working at the Polish consulate in Saint Petersburg and expressed "regret" and "concern" over the move.

Russia's ambassador was informed "that the Polish diplomat in question performed her duties resulting from the diplomatic status in accordance with the Vienna Convention," the ministry added.

The announcement of the expulsions came hours after the European Union's top diplomat Josep Borrell met Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Moscow and described the bloc's ties with Russia as at a "low point" over&nbsp;Navalny's jailing.

Despite close trade ties and energy interdependence, Russia's political relations with the European Union soured after Moscow annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014.

Germany, Poland and Sweden have condemned Russia's expulsion of diplomats from the three European countries for allegedly taking part in protests in support of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny.

Germany, Poland and Sweden have condemned Russia's expulsion of diplomats from the three European countries for allegedly taking part in protests in support of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny. Navalny, President Vladimir Putin's most prominent critic, was jailed this week for almost three years for parole violations he calls trumped-up, a move the West condemned. He was arrested on January 17 on his return from treatment in Germany, where he was flown in August after falling ill from what German officials concluded was poisoning with a military-grade nerve agent. The Kremlin has questioned whether Navalny was poisoned and denied blame for his illness. German Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Friday "We consider these expulsions to be unjustified. We believe it is yet another aspect that can be observed right now of Russia being quite far from the rule of law." German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said earlier that the decision by Moscow to declare the diplomats from Poland, Germany and Sweden persona non grata would "not go unanswered". Maas added that the German diplomat concerned was "solely fulfilling his duty... of informing himself about developments on the ground by lawful means". Also read: Russia expels diplomats from European nations over Navalny protests France's Macron also took Germany's stance, saying he was "completely in line and in solidarity" with his EU counterpart on the issue. He similarly condemned "most firmly" Russia's decision to expel the European diplomats. The Polish foreign ministry said in a statement that it had summoned Russia's ambassador to Warsaw after Russia earlier Friday said it was expelling diplomats from Poland, Germany and Sweden. The foreign ministry said the decision "will contribute to the further deepening of the crisis in the bilateral relations between our countries". The ministry said the diplomat in question was working at the Polish consulate in Saint Petersburg and expressed "regret" and "concern" over the move. Russia's ambassador was informed "that the Polish diplomat in question performed her duties resulting from the diplomatic status in accordance with the Vienna Convention," the ministry added. The announcement of the expulsions came hours after the European Union's top diplomat Josep Borrell met Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Moscow and described the bloc's ties with Russia as at a "low point" over Navalny's jailing. Despite close trade ties and energy interdependence, Russia's political relations with the European Union soured after Moscow annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014.

Germany, Poland and Sweden condemn Russia's expulsion of diplomats over Navalny protests

Chancellor Angela Merkel and her government have come under fire after she pushed Germany into ceding responsibility for negotiating vaccine contracts to the European Commission.

Amid EU vaccine mess, Germany agrees to procure Russia's Sputnik

Merkel said there were various reasons for the slower pace of vaccination in Germany compared to other countries.

Your Story: Angela Merkel says, 'Every vaccine welcome in Germany'

Chancellor Angela Merkel on Monday (February 1) defended her government against criticism that Germany's vaccine roll-out was too slow, saying that there had been a good reason for Europe's modest pace compared to other regions.

Merkel vows to offer all Germans COVID-19 vaccine by end-summer

German Chancellor Angela Merkel promises every citizen a Covid vaccine by September

The German Chancellor Angela Merkel has called for "fair" distribution of coronavirus vaccines across the world, rather than the adoption of 'me first' attitude.

"Money is one thing, but the other thing in a time of scarcity is the availability of the vaccine. Here it's about a fair distribution, and not about a question of money," she told local media.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-chief-says-companies-must-deliver-coronavirus-vaccines-germany-agrees-359459" hreflang="en">EU chief says companies 'must deliver' coronavirus vaccines; Germany agrees</a>

Talking about this attitude, she warned that if the trend continues, the history will have wounds of this unfair distribution for years to come.

"Let's not kid ourselves, the question of who gets which vaccine in the world will of course leave new wounds and new memories because those who get such emergency help will remember that," Merkel said.

Several leaders, especially of the third world countries, have spoken out about the unfair distribution of the coronavirus vaccines and have called out the rich countries for practising the 'me first' attitude.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-pandemic-could-last-4-to-5-years-singapore-minister-359440" hreflang="en">Covid pandemic could last 4 to 5 years: Singapore minister</a>

While the first-world countries are now having to double-think their decision of ordering more vaccines as the pressure of ordering in consideration of poor countries has been rising in recent weeks, many leaders are also calling out pharmaceutical companies for approaching only the rich countries to earn bigger profit margins.

Speaking at the online-only version of the World Economic Forum today, the South African President Cyril Ramaphosa also called out the rich countries for hoarding vaccines.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sa-president-calls-out-rich-countries-for-hoarding-vaccines-359471">SA President calls out rich countries for hoarding vaccines</a>

"Rich countries in the world are holding on to these vaccines and we are saying release the excess vaccines that you’ve ordered and hoarded," he said.

"We are concerned about vaccine nationalism. The rich countries of the world went out and acquired large doses of vaccines from developers and manufacturers of these vaccines. Some countries have even gone beyond and acquired up to four times what their population needs," Ramaphosa said.&nbsp;

"There is just no need for a country which perhaps has about 40 million people goes and acquires 120 million doses of vaccines or even 160 million, and yet the world needs access to these vaccines," he added.

The German Chancellor Angela Merkel has called for "fair" distribution of coronavirus vaccines across the world, rather than the adoption of 'me first' attitude.

The German Chancellor Angela Merkel has called for "fair" distribution of coronavirus vaccines across the world, rather than the adoption of 'me first' attitude. "Money is one thing, but the other thing in a time of scarcity is the availability of the vaccine. Here it's about a fair distribution, and not about a question of money," she told local media. Also read| EU chief says companies 'must deliver' coronavirus vaccines; Germany agrees Talking about this attitude, she warned that if the trend continues, the history will have wounds of this unfair distribution for years to come. "Let's not kid ourselves, the question of who gets which vaccine in the world will of course leave new wounds and new memories because those who get such emergency help will remember that," Merkel said. Several leaders, especially of the third world countries, have spoken out about the unfair distribution of the coronavirus vaccines and have called out the rich countries for practising the 'me first' attitude. Also read| Covid pandemic could last 4 to 5 years: Singapore minister While the first-world countries are now having to double-think their decision of ordering more vaccines as the pressure of ordering in consideration of poor countries has been rising in recent weeks, many leaders are also calling out pharmaceutical companies for approaching only the rich countries to earn bigger profit margins. Speaking at the online-only version of the World Economic Forum today, the South African President Cyril Ramaphosa also called out the rich countries for hoarding vaccines. Also read| SA President calls out rich countries for hoarding vaccines "Rich countries in the world are holding on to these vaccines and we are saying release the excess vaccines that you’ve ordered and hoarded," he said. "We are concerned about vaccine nationalism. The rich countries of the world went out and acquired large doses of vaccines from developers and manufacturers of these vaccines. Some countries have even gone beyond and acquired up to four times what their population needs," Ramaphosa said. "There is just no need for a country which perhaps has about 40 million people goes and acquires 120 million doses of vaccines or even 160 million, and yet the world needs access to these vaccines," he added.

German chancellor Angela Merkel urges 'fair' distribution of coronavirus vaccine

Its the end of an era as later this year, the German Chancellor&nbsp;Angela Merkel will step down from her position after serving the country for 15 long years and as one of the de-facto leaders of Europe, now her party has appointed a new leader.

Only a few leaders can boast of a track record that can match Angela Merkel's record.&nbsp; Severing as the german chancellor for 15 years and counting, she&nbsp;has worked with five British prime ministers, four French presidents, seven Italian prime ministers and once Joe Biden takes oath, four American presidents.

Now, one of the world's most successful politicians is stepping down. She is&nbsp;keeping the promise she made in 2018.

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lesser-known-facts-about-angela-merkel-set-to-return-as-germanys-chancellor-20574">&nbsp;Lesser known facts about Angela Merkel, set to return as Germany's Chancellor</a>

Her party now has a new leader — Armin Laschet. He will lead the charge of the Christian democratic union in the September polls.

Merkel's exit from the Chancellor's office will be the end of an era as she&nbsp;was the first woman to take Germany's top job in 2005.

When Merkel rose to power,&nbsp;many had dismissed her as inexperienced and uncharismatic. However,&nbsp;during her 15-year reign, Merkel has proved herself time and again.

Merkel's achievements

Three years into office, Merkel faced her greatest challenge in form of the&nbsp;2008 financial crisis that&nbsp;shook entire Europe. However, not only did Merkel steer Germany during the meltdown, but she was at the heart of the response to the eurozone debt crisis — one that could have led to the economic collapse of Greece, Portugal, Ireland, Spain and Cyprus.

Merkel held her own&nbsp;in front of adversaries,&nbsp;even when they tried to overpower or humiliate her. One famous&nbsp;instance of this is when Vladimir Putin brought a dog into a meeting with Merkel. It is quite popularly known that Merkel is afraid of dogs. However, the leader handled the situation with the utmost grace and confidence.

Hard days

Her last years in office, however, were upended by a refugee crisis. More than one million refugees arrived in Germany in 2015.&nbsp;Not only did Merkel welcome them, but she even convinced some European allies to accept some of them.

In 2018, she was elected for a record fourth term in office, but her party lost votes which forced Merkel&nbsp;to form a grand collation to keep power. Realising the end of the road is near, Merkel decided she will not run for a fifth term.

Her departure might trigger uncertainty as Germany hasn't been immune to the rise of the right. Parties like the alternative for Germany ate into the votes of established players in the last election.

The European Union remains a divided bloc, especially after the UK's exit from the EU. The coronavirus has also&nbsp;widened the differences,&nbsp;with authoritarian leaders in Hungary and Poland often rejecting the proposals laid out by their&nbsp;European partners.

So far, Merkel has managed to keep key allies together. However, both at home, and in the continent, the next leader of Germany has some big shoes to fill.

Its the end of an era as later this year, the German Chancellor Angela Merkel will step down from her position after serving the country for 15 long years and as one of the de-facto leaders of Europe, now her party has appointed a new leader.

Its the end of an era as later this year, the German Chancellor Angela Merkel will step down from her position after serving the country for 15 long years and as one of the de-facto leaders of Europe, now her party has appointed a new leader. Only a few leaders can boast of a track record that can match Angela Merkel's record. Severing as the german chancellor for 15 years and counting, she has worked with five British prime ministers, four French presidents, seven Italian prime ministers and once Joe Biden takes oath, four American presidents. Now, one of the world's most successful politicians is stepping down. She is keeping the promise she made in 2018. Also read| Lesser known facts about Angela Merkel, set to return as Germany's Chancellor Her party now has a new leader — Armin Laschet. He will lead the charge of the Christian democratic union in the September polls. Merkel's exit from the Chancellor's office will be the end of an era as she was the first woman to take Germany's top job in 2005. When Merkel rose to power, many had dismissed her as inexperienced and uncharismatic. However, during her 15-year reign, Merkel has proved herself time and again. Merkel's achievements Three years into office, Merkel faced her greatest challenge in form of the 2008 financial crisis that shook entire Europe. However, not only did Merkel steer Germany during the meltdown, but she was at the heart of the response to the eurozone debt crisis — one that could have led to the economic collapse of Greece, Portugal, Ireland, Spain and Cyprus. Merkel held her own in front of adversaries, even when they tried to overpower or humiliate her. One famous instance of this is when Vladimir Putin brought a dog into a meeting with Merkel. It is quite popularly known that Merkel is afraid of dogs. However, the leader handled the situation with the utmost grace and confidence. Hard days Her last years in office, however, were upended by a refugee crisis. More than one million refugees arrived in Germany in 2015. Not only did Merkel welcome them, but she even convinced some European allies to accept some of them. In 2018, she was elected for a record fourth term in office, but her party lost votes which forced Merkel to form a grand collation to keep power. Realising the end of the road is near, Merkel decided she will not run for a fifth term. Her departure might trigger uncertainty as Germany hasn't been immune to the rise of the right. Parties like the alternative for Germany ate into the votes of established players in the last election. The European Union remains a divided bloc, especially after the UK's exit from the EU. The coronavirus has also widened the differences, with authoritarian leaders in Hungary and Poland often rejecting the proposals laid out by their European partners. So far, Merkel has managed to keep key allies together. However, both at home, and in the continent, the next leader of Germany has some big shoes to fill.

End of an era: German Chancellor Angela Merkel prepares to step down after 15 years

German Chancellor Angela Merkel is stepping down after 16 years in office. Centrist Armin Laschet has now been elected as the leader of Germany's Christian Democrat.

Germany: Armin Laschet elected as a leader of Angela Merkel's CDU party

Germany’s Christian Democrats elect a new chairman on Saturday, aiming to unite their conservative party behind a new leader who they hope can succeed Angela Merkel as chancellor when she steps down after federal elections in September.

At stake is the leadership of Europe’s biggest economy in the era after Merkel, who has vowed not to run again after becoming Europe’s predominant leader since taking office in 2005 and proving a winner with German voters.

The new CDU leader will be elected by 1,001 delegates at a digital congress. By tradition, the leader is usually - though not always - the chancellor candidate for the CDU’s “Union” with its Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU).

Centrist Armin Laschet, arch-conservative Friedrich Merz and foreign policy expert Norbert Roettgen are vying for the CDU leadership.

However, polls show Markus Soeder, the CSU leader, is voters’ choice conservative. Some CDU lawmakers want dynamic Health Minister Jens Spahn to run for chancellor, though he has backed Laschet for the party leadership.

The three declared CDU candidates all contrast with Merkel.

Roettgen, 55, the eloquent chairman of parliament’s foreign affairs committee, wants Germany to take a firmer stance with Russia and China. Merz, 65, has targeted European Central Bank policy and is less diplomatic. Laschet, 59, who has polished his international profile, complains Berlin has taken “too long to react” to French calls for European Union reform.

Roettgen has suggested that, if elected CDU leader, he could support Soeder, Bavaria’s premier, to run as chancellor candidate for their alliance.

Soeder, 54, has shifted from the right towards the moderate centre of late. He plays coy about his ambitions - “My place is in Bavaria” has been his repeated refrain.

Carsten Nickel at Teneo, a political risk consultancy, said Soeder’s deft move towards the centre ground could make him the ideal candidate to lead a coalition with the ecologist Greens.

“But of course, the true challenges will arise when liberal and conservative demands clash,” Nickel added.

Germany’s Christian Democrats elect a new chairman on Saturday, aiming to unite their conservative party behind a new leader who they hope can succeed Angela Merkel as chancellor when she steps down after federal elections in September.

Germany’s Christian Democrats elect a new chairman on Saturday, aiming to unite their conservative party behind a new leader who they hope can succeed Angela Merkel as chancellor when she steps down after federal elections in September. At stake is the leadership of Europe’s biggest economy in the era after Merkel, who has vowed not to run again after becoming Europe’s predominant leader since taking office in 2005 and proving a winner with German voters. The new CDU leader will be elected by 1,001 delegates at a digital congress. By tradition, the leader is usually - though not always - the chancellor candidate for the CDU’s “Union” with its Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU). Centrist Armin Laschet, arch-conservative Friedrich Merz and foreign policy expert Norbert Roettgen are vying for the CDU leadership. However, polls show Markus Soeder, the CSU leader, is voters’ choice conservative. Some CDU lawmakers want dynamic Health Minister Jens Spahn to run for chancellor, though he has backed Laschet for the party leadership. The three declared CDU candidates all contrast with Merkel. Roettgen, 55, the eloquent chairman of parliament’s foreign affairs committee, wants Germany to take a firmer stance with Russia and China. Merz, 65, has targeted European Central Bank policy and is less diplomatic. Laschet, 59, who has polished his international profile, complains Berlin has taken “too long to react” to French calls for European Union reform. Roettgen has suggested that, if elected CDU leader, he could support Soeder, Bavaria’s premier, to run as chancellor candidate for their alliance. Soeder, 54, has shifted from the right towards the moderate centre of late. He plays coy about his ambitions - “My place is in Bavaria” has been his repeated refrain. Carsten Nickel at Teneo, a political risk consultancy, said Soeder’s deft move towards the centre ground could make him the ideal candidate to lead a coalition with the ecologist Greens. “But of course, the true challenges will arise when liberal and conservative demands clash,” Nickel added.

End of Merkel era begins as German CDU picks new party leader

The social media giant, Twitter, suspended the soon-to-be-impeached US President Donald Trump's account after he was accused of promoting the idea of&nbsp;violence during the Capitol riots.

While the digital activists hailed Twitter's action against Trump, several European Union leaders, including Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel, seem to have a different opinion on this matter.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/melania-condemns-us-capitol-violence-says-its-time-for-healing-in-a-civil-manner-356036" hreflang="en">Melania condemns Capitol violence, says time for 'healing in a civil manner'</a>

Merkel believes the action taken by Twitter and Facebook is 'problematic' as it points out the power the bosses of these digital platforms exercise in today's world and the limitation of freedom of opinion being provided to world leaders.

"The fundamental right to freedom of opinion is a fundamental right of elementary importance, and this fundamental right can be interfered with, but through the law and within the framework defined by the legislature, not according to the decision of the management of social media platforms. From this point of view, the chancellor considers it problematic that the accounts of the US president have been permanently blocked.," Merkel's spokesperson said on Monday.&nbsp;

French Economy Minister Bruno Le Maire, too, agreed with Merkel's point of view saying it is unfair that these digital platforms get a say in blocking and unblocking accounts of world leaders, rather than States and Justice.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-blocks-phrase-hang-mike-pence-as-trump-supporters-turn-against-him-355959" hreflang="en">Twitter blocks phrase 'Hang Mike Pence' as Trump supporters turn against him</a>

"What shocks me is that it is Twitter that is shutting down Trump's account. The regulation of the digital giants cannot and should not be done by the digital oligarchy itself. It is necessary but it must be done by States and by Justice," he said.

Some EU leaders have also compared this attack and the following consequences to the deadly 9/11 attacks in the US. A top EU official on tech policy said this attack on the Capitol will be remembered&nbsp;as social media's September 11.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-house-speaker-nancy-pelosi-says-ready-to-start-impeachment-against-donald-trump-356032">WATCH|&nbsp;</a>

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"Just as 9/11 marked a paradigm shift for global security, 20 years later we are witnessing a before-and-after in the role of digital platforms in our democracy," he said in a published story.

"The fact that a CEO can pull the plug on (Trump's) loudspeaker without any checks and balances is perplexing," Breton said. "It is not only confirmation of the power of these platforms, but it also displays deep weaknesses in the way our society is organised in the digital space."

The social media giant, Twitter, suspended the soon-to-be-impeached US President Donald Trump's account after he was accused of promoting the idea of violence during the Capitol riots.

The social media giant, Twitter, suspended the soon-to-be-impeached US President Donald Trump's account after he was accused of promoting the idea of violence during the Capitol riots. While the digital activists hailed Twitter's action against Trump, several European Union leaders, including Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel, seem to have a different opinion on this matter. Also read| Melania condemns Capitol violence, says time for 'healing in a civil manner' Merkel believes the action taken by Twitter and Facebook is 'problematic' as it points out the power the bosses of these digital platforms exercise in today's world and the limitation of freedom of opinion being provided to world leaders. "The fundamental right to freedom of opinion is a fundamental right of elementary importance, and this fundamental right can be interfered with, but through the law and within the framework defined by the legislature, not according to the decision of the management of social media platforms. From this point of view, the chancellor considers it problematic that the accounts of the US president have been permanently blocked.," Merkel's spokesperson said on Monday. French Economy Minister Bruno Le Maire, too, agreed with Merkel's point of view saying it is unfair that these digital platforms get a say in blocking and unblocking accounts of world leaders, rather than States and Justice. Also read| Twitter blocks phrase 'Hang Mike Pence' as Trump supporters turn against him "What shocks me is that it is Twitter that is shutting down Trump's account. The regulation of the digital giants cannot and should not be done by the digital oligarchy itself. It is necessary but it must be done by States and by Justice," he said. Some EU leaders have also compared this attack and the following consequences to the deadly 9/11 attacks in the US. A top EU official on tech policy said this attack on the Capitol will be remembered as social media's September 11. WATCH| "Just as 9/11 marked a paradigm shift for global security, 20 years later we are witnessing a before-and-after in the role of digital platforms in our democracy," he said in a published story. "The fact that a CEO can pull the plug on (Trump's) loudspeaker without any checks and balances is perplexing," Breton said. "It is not only confirmation of the power of these platforms, but it also displays deep weaknesses in the way our society is organised in the digital space."

Suspension of Trump's Twitter account is 'problematic': Angela Merkel

With the identification of cases of the new strains of coronavirus — from the UK and South Africa — Germany's&nbsp;Chancellor Angela Merkel has warned locals for the upcoming weeks, claiming they might be the "hardest" weeks till now.

The warning from Merkel came at a time when the European country crossed&nbsp;40,000 deaths from the deadly virus after&nbsp;465 new deaths were reported on Saturday, taking the death toll to&nbsp;40,343.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/berlin-to-examine-parliament-security-after-us-capitol-violence-355164">Berlin to examine parliament security after US Capitol violence</a>

During her weekly video message to the country, Merkel warned locals "these next winter weeks will be the hardest phase of the pandemic". She also warned locals that majority doctors and other healthcare workers are already working in their full capacity.

She also reported that the full impact of the increase in coronavirus cases and deaths during the Christmas and New Year holiday season has not yet been added in the statistics.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-putin-and-germanys-merkel-discuss-possible-joint-vaccine-production-354606">Russia's Putin and Germany's Merkel discuss possible joint vaccine production</a>

As of now, more than 5,000 COVID-19 patients are admitted in the Intensive Care Units (ICU) and the ICUs are filled to 8- per cent capacity, with a massive increase in demand. hospitals, in general too, are struggling to provide beds to coronavirus patients after a surge in COVID-19 cases.

Germany has recorded more than&nbsp;1.9 million coronavirus cases, with an increase of&nbsp;almost 17,000 cases recorded on Saturday. Following the increase, the government ordered shut down of all non-essential shops,&nbsp;culture and leisure facilities till January 31.

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/schools-salons-shut-down-in-germany-as-merkel-announces-another-covid-19-lockdown-349511">&nbsp;Schools, salons shut down in Germany as Merkel announces another COVID-19 lockdown</a>

The European country started a mass<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine"> vaccination</a> drive towards the end of December after the European Union (EU) approved emergency use of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine against coronavirus. Till now, more than half a million people have been vaccinated. Germany will soon begin the usage of US firm Moderna's vaccine too.

Merkel, during the address, assured people that while the initial speed of the vaccination drive has been slow, it will soon pick up. "What's important is that we can say: we will have enough of the vaccine available for everyone in Germany," she said. "Month after month we will inoculate more people and eventually we will be able to offer the vaccine to anyone who wants it."

With the identification of cases of the new strains of coronavirus — from the UK and South Africa — Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel has warned locals for the upcoming weeks, claiming they might be the "hardest" weeks till now.

With the identification of cases of the new strains of coronavirus — from the UK and South Africa — Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel has warned locals for the upcoming weeks, claiming they might be the "hardest" weeks till now. The warning from Merkel came at a time when the European country crossed 40,000 deaths from the deadly virus after 465 new deaths were reported on Saturday, taking the death toll to 40,343. Also read| Berlin to examine parliament security after US Capitol violence During her weekly video message to the country, Merkel warned locals "these next winter weeks will be the hardest phase of the pandemic". She also warned locals that majority doctors and other healthcare workers are already working in their full capacity. She also reported that the full impact of the increase in coronavirus cases and deaths during the Christmas and New Year holiday season has not yet been added in the statistics. Also read| Russia's Putin and Germany's Merkel discuss possible joint vaccine production As of now, more than 5,000 COVID-19 patients are admitted in the Intensive Care Units (ICU) and the ICUs are filled to 8- per cent capacity, with a massive increase in demand. hospitals, in general too, are struggling to provide beds to coronavirus patients after a surge in COVID-19 cases. Germany has recorded more than 1.9 million coronavirus cases, with an increase of almost 17,000 cases recorded on Saturday. Following the increase, the government ordered shut down of all non-essential shops, culture and leisure facilities till January 31. Also read| Schools, salons shut down in Germany as Merkel announces another COVID-19 lockdown The European country started a mass vaccination drive towards the end of December after the European Union (EU) approved emergency use of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine against coronavirus. Till now, more than half a million people have been vaccinated. Germany will soon begin the usage of US firm Moderna's vaccine too. Merkel, during the address, assured people that while the initial speed of the vaccination drive has been slow, it will soon pick up. "What's important is that we can say: we will have enough of the vaccine available for everyone in Germany," she said. "Month after month we will inoculate more people and eventually we will be able to offer the vaccine to anyone who wants it."

'Hardest phase of pandemic': Angela Merkel cautions after German virus deaths cross 40,000

Germany will be examining its security for its parliament as per the speaker of the house said Thursday. This move comes after angry protestors stormed into US Capitol on Wednesday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-of-indian-flag-spotted-in-pro-trump-rally-at-us-capitol-goes-viral-355146" hreflang="en">Video of Indian flag spotted in pro-Trump rally at US Capitol goes viral</a>

During the summers last year, Germany witnessed similar sorts of the situation as the demonstrators, protesting against Merkel administration's restrictions due to COVID-19, tried to enter the Reichstag parliament building. However, they were repelled by police forces.

Following chaotic scenes overnight in the Capitol, German parliament speaker Wolfgang Schaeuble said he would examine "what conclusions should be drawn from this for the protection of the Bundestag", his office said in a statement.

ALSO SEE:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-tear-gas-explosives-and-gunfire-trump-supporters-storm-capitol-clash-with-police-354961" hreflang="en">In pics-Tear gas, explosives and gunfire: Trump supporters storm Capitol, clash with police</a>

The Bundestag is the lower house in Germany with lawmaker strength of 709, whereas, Reichstag is the building where the work is carried out.&nbsp;

The German embassy in the United States requested to provide a report on how the "violent excesses could have happened in the Capitol".

The federal interior ministry, security forces of the parliamentary groups, and the state of Berlin have been given the task to examine Bundestag's protection and whether it needs to be beefed up.&nbsp;

Many lawmakers of far-right AfD party were involved in the anti-virus restrictions march. They have also been accused of inviting into the parliament building protesters who went on to harass other MPs. However, leaders of the AfD released a statement Thursday denying any links to heated virus-sceptic protests in front of the Reichstag building last year.

"Anyone who equates the unrest in Washington with the demonstrations that took place before the Reichstag building in Berlin, and who points to our party's sympathy for these events, is abusing the anarchist events for political purposes in Germany," they said in a statement.

Germany will be examining its security for its parliament as per the speaker of the house said Thursday. This move comes after angry protestors stormed into US Capitol on Wednesday.

Germany will be examining its security for its parliament as per the speaker of the house said Thursday. This move comes after angry protestors stormed into US Capitol on Wednesday. ALSO READ: Video of Indian flag spotted in pro-Trump rally at US Capitol goes viral During the summers last year, Germany witnessed similar sorts of the situation as the demonstrators, protesting against Merkel administration's restrictions due to COVID-19, tried to enter the Reichstag parliament building. However, they were repelled by police forces. Following chaotic scenes overnight in the Capitol, German parliament speaker Wolfgang Schaeuble said he would examine "what conclusions should be drawn from this for the protection of the Bundestag", his office said in a statement. ALSO SEE: In pics-Tear gas, explosives and gunfire: Trump supporters storm Capitol, clash with police The Bundestag is the lower house in Germany with lawmaker strength of 709, whereas, Reichstag is the building where the work is carried out. The German embassy in the United States requested to provide a report on how the "violent excesses could have happened in the Capitol". The federal interior ministry, security forces of the parliamentary groups, and the state of Berlin have been given the task to examine Bundestag's protection and whether it needs to be beefed up. Many lawmakers of far-right AfD party were involved in the anti-virus restrictions march. They have also been accused of inviting into the parliament building protesters who went on to harass other MPs. However, leaders of the AfD released a statement Thursday denying any links to heated virus-sceptic protests in front of the Reichstag building last year. "Anyone who equates the unrest in Washington with the demonstrations that took place before the Reichstag building in Berlin, and who points to our party's sympathy for these events, is abusing the anarchist events for political purposes in Germany," they said in a statement.

Berlin to examine parliament security after US Capitol violence

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a video-teleconference with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Wednesday and briefed her on COVID-19 vaccine development in India, while also assuring her of the country's commitment to deploy its capacities for the benefit of the world.

A Prime Minister's Office statement said Modi appreciated the long-standing role of Chancellor Merkel in providing stable and strong leadership at the European and global stage, and thanked her for guiding the growth of the India-Germany Strategic Partnership.

The two leaders discussed key issues of mutual importance including the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, bilateral ties, regional and global issues, particularly India-EU relations.

The prime minister briefed Chancellor Merkel on the developments in India with regard to vaccine development and assured the chancellor of India's commitment to deploy its capacities for the benefit of the world, the statement said.

"He conveyed his best wishes for early containment of the new wave of infections in Germany and other European countries," it said. 
Prime Minister Modi also welcomed Germany's decision to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA), and expressed his desire to further strengthen cooperation with Germany under the platform of Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI).

Noting that this year marks the 70th anniversary of setting up of bilateral relations between India and Germany and 20th anniversary of the Strategic Partnership, the two leaders agreed to hold the sixth Inter-Governmental Consultations (IGC) at an early date in 2021 and to set an ambitious agenda for the same, the statement said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a video-teleconference with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Wednesday and briefed her on COVID-19 vaccine development in India, while also assuring her of the country's commitment to deploy its capacities for the benefit of the world.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a video-teleconference with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Wednesday and briefed her on COVID-19 vaccine development in India, while also assuring her of the country's commitment to deploy its capacities for the benefit of the world. A Prime Minister's Office statement said Modi appreciated the long-standing role of Chancellor Merkel in providing stable and strong leadership at the European and global stage, and thanked her for guiding the growth of the India-Germany Strategic Partnership. The two leaders discussed key issues of mutual importance including the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, bilateral ties, regional and global issues, particularly India-EU relations. The prime minister briefed Chancellor Merkel on the developments in India with regard to vaccine development and assured the chancellor of India's commitment to deploy its capacities for the benefit of the world, the statement said. "He conveyed his best wishes for early containment of the new wave of infections in Germany and other European countries," it said. Prime Minister Modi also welcomed Germany's decision to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA), and expressed his desire to further strengthen cooperation with Germany under the platform of Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). Noting that this year marks the 70th anniversary of setting up of bilateral relations between India and Germany and 20th anniversary of the Strategic Partnership, the two leaders agreed to hold the sixth Inter-Governmental Consultations (IGC) at an early date in 2021 and to set an ambitious agenda for the same, the statement said.

PM Modi-Angela Merkel hold video-teleconference

In a first, the Russian President&nbsp;Vladimir Putin and German Chancellor Angela Merkel got on a phone call on Tuesday to discuss the possibility of jointly producing coronavirus vaccines.

"Issues of cooperation in combating the coronavirus pandemic were discussed with an emphasis on the possible prospects for joint production of vaccines," the Kremlin's statement read.

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/schools-salons-shut-down-in-germany-as-merkel-announces-another-covid-19-lockdown-349511">&nbsp;Schools, salons shut down in Germany as Merkel announces another COVID-19 lockdown</a>

The phone call came a few days after both the countries started mass&nbsp;vaccination drives, with Russia's Sputnik V vaccine and German's pharmaceutical company BioNTech's vaccine in partnership with Pfizer.

Russia's local vaccine, Sputnik V —&nbsp;named after the Soviet-era satellite — was hailed as the first vaccine as it was registered in August. The vaccine was registered far before the trials were started, which raised concerns about its efficacy at the time. Since then, however, Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna have taken a lead and have been approved by several countries.

The Putin-led country&nbsp;started a mass vaccination drive in early December, making the jab first available to high-risk groups including medics, teachers and the elderly. The local vaccine was also sent to&nbsp;Belarus, Serbia and Argentina, and also announced to send nearly 2.6 million doses to Bolivia if the production rate is satisfied.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-moscow-hires-first-women-train-drivers-after-decades-long-ban-354555">WATCH|</a>

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While the information about an ongoing phone call was reported, the outcome of the same has not been revealed. The Kremlin only claimed that an agreement was reached to "continue contacts on the issue" between the health experts and concerned government officials of the two countries.

The heads of the two countries also discussed the settlement between&nbsp;Kiev and pro-Russian separatist forces in eastern Ukraine. The topic was discussed in length as it has been on a standstill since signing of peace accords in 2015.

In a first, the Russian President Vladimir Putin and German Chancellor Angela Merkel got on a phone call on Tuesday to discuss the possibility of jointly producing coronavirus vaccines.

In a first, the Russian President Vladimir Putin and German Chancellor Angela Merkel got on a phone call on Tuesday to discuss the possibility of jointly producing coronavirus vaccines. "Issues of cooperation in combating the coronavirus pandemic were discussed with an emphasis on the possible prospects for joint production of vaccines," the Kremlin's statement read. Also read| Schools, salons shut down in Germany as Merkel announces another COVID-19 lockdown The phone call came a few days after both the countries started mass vaccination drives, with Russia's Sputnik V vaccine and German's pharmaceutical company BioNTech's vaccine in partnership with Pfizer. Russia's local vaccine, Sputnik V — named after the Soviet-era satellite — was hailed as the first vaccine as it was registered in August. The vaccine was registered far before the trials were started, which raised concerns about its efficacy at the time. Since then, however, Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna have taken a lead and have been approved by several countries. The Putin-led country started a mass vaccination drive in early December, making the jab first available to high-risk groups including medics, teachers and the elderly. The local vaccine was also sent to Belarus, Serbia and Argentina, and also announced to send nearly 2.6 million doses to Bolivia if the production rate is satisfied. WATCH| × While the information about an ongoing phone call was reported, the outcome of the same has not been revealed. The Kremlin only claimed that an agreement was reached to "continue contacts on the issue" between the health experts and concerned government officials of the two countries. The heads of the two countries also discussed the settlement between Kiev and pro-Russian separatist forces in eastern Ukraine. The topic was discussed in length as it has been on a standstill since signing of peace accords in 2015.

Russia's Putin and Germany's Merkel discuss possible joint vaccine production

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has announced the closure of non-essential stores & schools from the December 16 to January 10 after meeting with regional leaders.

Germany to enter festive season coronavirus lockdown

Germany has been gravely hit by the second wave of the coronavirus, and to contain the spread of the pandemic, German Chancellor Angela Merkel has announced a semi-lockdown in the country from Wednesday.

Merkel announced the closure of schools and all non-essential services from Wednesday in a bid to contain the "exponential growth" after new clusters of infections were found.

"The corona situation is out of control," said Bavarian state premier Markus Soeder, who has assured all support to the Chancellor in this decision.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-urges-using-scientific-advances-to-battle-climate-change-349383">UK PM urges using scientific advances to battle climate change</a>

As per the new lockdown rules, all schools will remain shut till January, and children will be returning to online classes with immediate effect. In addition to schools, all companies, too, have been suggested to shift to 'work-from-home' or offer extended company holidays.&nbsp;In the new partial lockdown, all hair salons and non -essential shops have also been asked to shut down till January 10.

Sale of alcohol has also been banned in public places, which has brought an outcry at the time of the year when mulled wine is largely popular due to the Christmas and winter season in Germany.&nbsp;

These new regulations have been taken after&nbsp;Merkel with regional leaders of Germany's 16 states' agreement on Sunday.

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The decision comes a few months after the country had reopened its economy completely, followed by an immediate closure of leisure activities. Over the last week, the&nbsp;country's disease control agency has raised concerns about the infections trend rising at an alarming rate.

"With increasing mobility and the therefore linked additional contacts in the pre-Christmas period, Germany is now in exponential growth of infections numbers," said the policy paper agreed by regional leaders and Merkel.

Continu9ing the same, Merkel said it was their "task to prevent an overload of our health systems and that's why there is an urgent need to take action."

Germany has been gravely hit by the second wave of the coronavirus, and to contain the spread of the pandemic, German Chancellor Angela Merkel has announced a semi-lockdown in the country from Wednesday.

Germany has been gravely hit by the second wave of the coronavirus, and to contain the spread of the pandemic, German Chancellor Angela Merkel has announced a semi-lockdown in the country from Wednesday. Merkel announced the closure of schools and all non-essential services from Wednesday in a bid to contain the "exponential growth" after new clusters of infections were found. "The corona situation is out of control," said Bavarian state premier Markus Soeder, who has assured all support to the Chancellor in this decision. Also read| UK PM urges using scientific advances to battle climate change As per the new lockdown rules, all schools will remain shut till January, and children will be returning to online classes with immediate effect. In addition to schools, all companies, too, have been suggested to shift to 'work-from-home' or offer extended company holidays. In the new partial lockdown, all hair salons and non -essential shops have also been asked to shut down till January 10. Sale of alcohol has also been banned in public places, which has brought an outcry at the time of the year when mulled wine is largely popular due to the Christmas and winter season in Germany. These new regulations have been taken after Merkel with regional leaders of Germany's 16 states' agreement on Sunday. × The decision comes a few months after the country had reopened its economy completely, followed by an immediate closure of leisure activities. Over the last week, the country's disease control agency has raised concerns about the infections trend rising at an alarming rate. "With increasing mobility and the therefore linked additional contacts in the pre-Christmas period, Germany is now in exponential growth of infections numbers," said the policy paper agreed by regional leaders and Merkel. Continu9ing the same, Merkel said it was their "task to prevent an overload of our health systems and that's why there is an urgent need to take action."

Schools, salons shut down in Germany as Merkel announces another COVID-19 lockdown

Chancellor of Germany Angela Merkel on Wednesday said that the government will be extending its virus restrictions till January 10 in order to contain the virus spread.

German Chancellor says, "Govt to extend its COVID -19 virus restriction" | DW-WION Partnership

German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Wednesday&nbsp;approved&nbsp;compensation for gay soldiers who faced discrimination in the armed forces until a change of policy in 2000.

Earlier,&nbsp;German Defense Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer said&nbsp;“I very much regret the practice of discrimination against homosexuals in the Bundeswehr, which stood for the policy of that time.&nbsp;“I apologise to those who suffered because of it.”

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/germany-cycling-rally-replaces-parade-on-christopher-street-day-in-hamburg-317602#for-equality-317596">Germany: Cycling rally replaces parade on Christopher Street Day in Hamburg</a>

Under the proposed law, which needs to be approved by parliament, soldiers who were convicted by military courts for being gay, demoted, or who otherwise saw their careers damaged because of their sexual orientation, would receive a "symbolic amount" of 3,000 euros ($3,500).&nbsp;

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In picture: A German military truck covered with the flags of the lgbtq community

"We cannot erase the suffering inflicted upon these people," Kramp-Karrenbauer told the RedaktionsNetzwerk Deutschland (RND) newspaper group. "But we want to send a signal" and "turn the page on a dark chapter in the history of the armed forces", she said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-accuses-turkey-of-obstructing-libya-peace-344921/amp">Germany accuses Turkey of obstructing Libya peace</a>

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The compensation would apply to soldiers from the Bundeswehr, which was created in West Germany in 1955, and to troops from former East Germany's National People's Army, founded in 1956.

The defence ministry estimates that about 1,000 people would be eligible for a payout.

Military court judgments against soldiers for engaging in consensual gay sex acts would also be quashed under the draft bill.

The legislation was introduced in the 19th century, toughened under Nazi rule and retained in that form by democratic West Germany, which convicted some 50,000 men between 1949 and 1969. Homosexuality was decriminalized in 1969 but the legislation wasn’t taken off the books entirely until 1994.

However,&nbsp;discrimination against gay servicepeople continued for much longer, including after Germany was reunified in 1990.

Gay soldiers could expect to be overlooked for promotions or removed from positions of responsibility, with senior officers often deeming them a "security risk" or a bad example to others.

Lawmakers approved compensation for men who were convicted. Payments were later extended to people who were put under investigation or taken into investigative custody but not convicted.

A federal court decided in 1970 that homosexuality was no longer a disciplinary offense for soldiers unless there was a “service connection,” the new study said. That was interpreted strictly to start with and gradually loosened.

That ended with a law change in 2000 that officially protected gay, lesbian and bisexual people from discrimination in the armed forces.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Wednesday approved compensation for gay soldiers who faced discrimination in the armed forces until a change of policy in 2000.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Wednesday approved compensation for gay soldiers who faced discrimination in the armed forces until a change of policy in 2000. Earlier, German Defense Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer said “I very much regret the practice of discrimination against homosexuals in the Bundeswehr, which stood for the policy of that time. “I apologise to those who suffered because of it.” Also see: Germany: Cycling rally replaces parade on Christopher Street Day in Hamburg Under the proposed law, which needs to be approved by parliament, soldiers who were convicted by military courts for being gay, demoted, or who otherwise saw their careers damaged because of their sexual orientation, would receive a "symbolic amount" of 3,000 euros ($3,500). In picture: A German military truck covered with the flags of the lgbtq community "We cannot erase the suffering inflicted upon these people," Kramp-Karrenbauer told the RedaktionsNetzwerk Deutschland (RND) newspaper group. "But we want to send a signal" and "turn the page on a dark chapter in the history of the armed forces", she said. Also read: Germany accuses Turkey of obstructing Libya peace The compensation would apply to soldiers from the Bundeswehr, which was created in West Germany in 1955, and to troops from former East Germany's National People's Army, founded in 1956. The defence ministry estimates that about 1,000 people would be eligible for a payout. Military court judgments against soldiers for engaging in consensual gay sex acts would also be quashed under the draft bill. The legislation was introduced in the 19th century, toughened under Nazi rule and retained in that form by democratic West Germany, which convicted some 50,000 men between 1949 and 1969. Homosexuality was decriminalized in 1969 but the legislation wasn’t taken off the books entirely until 1994. However, discrimination against gay servicepeople continued for much longer, including after Germany was reunified in 1990. Gay soldiers could expect to be overlooked for promotions or removed from positions of responsibility, with senior officers often deeming them a "security risk" or a bad example to others. Lawmakers approved compensation for men who were convicted. Payments were later extended to people who were put under investigation or taken into investigative custody but not convicted. A federal court decided in 1970 that homosexuality was no longer a disciplinary offense for soldiers unless there was a “service connection,” the new study said. That was interpreted strictly to start with and gradually loosened. That ended with a law change in 2000 that officially protected gay, lesbian and bisexual people from discrimination in the armed forces.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel approves compensation for past military anti-gay discrimination

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German Chancellor Angela Merkel approves compensation for past military anti-gay discrimination