<p>The German government has approved a draft legislation aimed at lifting many restraints imposed on its spy agencies in the postwar period and giving it more powers as the country reels from two attacks in a month that have exposed serious security gaps. The move will reduce Berlin’s reliance on tips from its allies.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The changes largely comply with the wishlist drawn by the foreign and domestic intelligence services, which complain that Germany lags behind both its allies and enemies.</p><p>Germany’s Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt praised the approved measures that give intelligence services broad powers and said, “We are transforming our intelligence services into genuine secret services.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Dobrindt told a press conference in Berlin on Wednesday that the new measures will revolutionize Germany’s security architecture.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/heaven-made-in-china-optical-shop-owner-learns-ai-painstakingly-gets-fame-as-video-goes-viral-1786540438553"><strong>Heaven – Made in China: Optical shop owner learns AI painstakingly, gets fame as video goes viral</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“It is high time we positioned ourselves to be competitive and on an equal footing with our partner services around the world. This requires operational capabilities and active powers to tackle modern state terrorism and extremist groups more effectively,” he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“We are a daily target of espionage, sabotage, cyberattacks and hidden actions by foreign powers with the aim of destabilizing our country, damaging our country, and bringing about political and social changes in our country,” Dobrindt said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Reforms will give domestic, foreign intel services more ioperational powers</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The reforms will give domestic and foreign intelligence services more scope in gathering and storing information and data, as well as operational powers to fight acts of sabotage and hacking attempts.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The German government says the reforms are needed to better combat the growing threat from cyber and hybrid attacks, particularly, but not exclusively, from Russia.</p><p>Dobrindt said Germany was catching up with what is possible in other European countries like France or the UK, where secret services have more and broader powers.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baloch-leader-thanks-indian-media-announces-push-for-recognition-of-republic-of-balochistan-1786479617334"><strong>Baloch leader thanks Indian media, announces push for recognition of ‘Republic of Balochistan’</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Two major intel and security lapses prompted the new measures. First was a deadly car ramming at Berlin’s huge annual Pride parade in July by a German-born Islamist known to the authorities. The second was the discovery of an explosives-laden drone near a Ukrainian cargo plane at Leipzig airport, a key defence transport hub, last week.</p><p>Friedrich Merz’s coalition government is under pressure to demonstrate it can modernise to keep its citizens safe.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The intelligence services reform plans have been in the offing for months and were repeatedly fine-tuned before being presented to the cabinet on Wednesday.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The federal foreign intelligence service (BND) will get new powers to confront emerging threats from state actors such as Russia and China with fewer impediments, and with the help of AI.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Threat level soared since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>German authorities say the threat level has soared since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as agents linked to Moscow have allegedly carried out repeated sabotage, spying and hacker attacks against critical infrastructure and military equipment manufacturers.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astonished-the-world-iran-proved-it-s-tough-and-invincible-says-foreign-minister-abbas-araghchi-1786475605560"><strong>‘Astonished the world’: Iran proved it’s tough and invincible, says Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Until now, the BND had a defensive position, making it largely a repository for information with few operational powers.</p><p>However, the use of force by intelligence personnel abroad will remain forbidden. But agents will be able to carry weapons for self-defence more often without explicit permission.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The law would loosen rules around data protection, widely mocked as self-defeating and exaggerated.</p>

The German government says the reforms are needed to better combat the growing threat from cyber and hybrid attacks. They will give domestic and foreign intelligence services more scope in gathering and storing information, as well as operational powers to fight acts of sabotage and hacking.

The German government has approved a draft legislation aimed at lifting many restraints imposed on its spy agencies in the postwar period and giving it more powers as the country reels from two attacks in a month that have exposed serious security gaps. The move will reduce Berlin’s reliance on tips from its allies. The changes largely comply with the wishlist drawn by the foreign and domestic intelligence services, which complain that Germany lags behind both its allies and enemies. Germany’s Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt praised the approved measures that give intelligence services broad powers and said, “We are transforming our intelligence services into genuine secret services.” Dobrindt told a press conference in Berlin on Wednesday that the new measures will revolutionize Germany’s security architecture. Also Read: Heaven – Made in China: Optical shop owner learns AI painstakingly, gets fame as video goes viral “It is high time we positioned ourselves to be competitive and on an equal footing with our partner services around the world. This requires operational capabilities and active powers to tackle modern state terrorism and extremist groups more effectively,” he said. “We are a daily target of espionage, sabotage, cyberattacks and hidden actions by foreign powers with the aim of destabilizing our country, damaging our country, and bringing about political and social changes in our country,” Dobrindt said. Reforms will give domestic, foreign intel services more ioperational powers The reforms will give domestic and foreign intelligence services more scope in gathering and storing information and data, as well as operational powers to fight acts of sabotage and hacking attempts. The German government says the reforms are needed to better combat the growing threat from cyber and hybrid attacks, particularly, but not exclusively, from Russia. Dobrindt said Germany was catching up with what is possible in other European countries like France or the UK, where secret services have more and broader powers. Also Read: Baloch leader thanks Indian media, announces push for recognition of ‘Republic of Balochistan’ Two major intel and security lapses prompted the new measures. First was a deadly car ramming at Berlin’s huge annual Pride parade in July by a German-born Islamist known to the authorities. The second was the discovery of an explosives-laden drone near a Ukrainian cargo plane at Leipzig airport, a key defence transport hub, last week. Friedrich Merz’s coalition government is under pressure to demonstrate it can modernise to keep its citizens safe. The intelligence services reform plans have been in the offing for months and were repeatedly fine-tuned before being presented to the cabinet on Wednesday. The federal foreign intelligence service (BND) will get new powers to confront emerging threats from state actors such as Russia and China with fewer impediments, and with the help of AI. Threat level soared since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine German authorities say the threat level has soared since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as agents linked to Moscow have allegedly carried out repeated sabotage, spying and hacker attacks against critical infrastructure and military equipment manufacturers. Also Read: ‘Astonished the world’: Iran proved it’s tough and invincible, says Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi Until now, the BND had a defensive position, making it largely a repository for information with few operational powers. However, the use of force by intelligence personnel abroad will remain forbidden. But agents will be able to carry weapons for self-defence more often without explicit permission. The law would loosen rules around data protection, widely mocked as self-defeating and exaggerated.

<p>The German government says the reforms are needed to better combat the growing threat from cyber and hybrid attacks. They will give domestic and foreign intelligence services more scope in gathering and storing information, as well as operational powers to fight acts of sabotage and hacking.</p>

Germany gives intelligence services broad powers amid rising threats, security lapses

<p>German anatomist Gunther von Hagens, also known as Dr Death, triggered horror across the world with his work linked to human dead bodies. He preserved human corpses for his Body Worlds exhibits. Once, he even conducted a post-mortem examination in public. The crux of his work was the "plastination process" where the body fluids were replaced with liquid plastic that then hardens. von Hagens' family and the Institute for Plastination said that he died on July 24. His last wish was to undergo the plastination process as well.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He started developing the technique in the 1970s, which prevents the body from decaying with tissues left intact. He then displayed the preserved corpses and their inner organs at exhibits. It sounds unreal, but this revolting practice is something that he became famous for. Now his own body will be put through the same process, as revealed by his family, who have already made it available for plastination.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Von Hagens was admitted to a clinic in Heidelberg, Germany, with a brain haemorrhage and died a day later. "It was Gunther von Hagens' own wish to make his body available for plastination after his death," the statement read. "His family will respect and carry out this wish."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Defending his work, Von Hagens used to say that it was a way to help people understand how their bodies work. "I touch here a taboo, which is our body, and nothing is so near as our body is to us," he said. He used the bodies of people who agreed to donate them for plastination after their death.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, critics said that his work bordered on sensationalism. &nbsp;Rev Ernst Pulsfort, spiritual rector of Berlin’s Catholic Academy, said that he "plays with the corpses like a child plays with dolls." One of his works showed a human body on a plastinated horse, while one was of a pregnant woman with a protruding belly.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>At the Body Worlds show in London in 2002, he conducted Britain’s first public post-mortem examination in 170 years. Hundreds of people attended despite government warnings that it might be illegal.&nbsp;</p>

Gunther von Hagens was a German anatomist who replaced body fluids in a dead body with plastic and exhibited it. He was widely criticised for his work. However, he has now died, and his last wish was to put his own body through the plastination process.   

German anatomist Gunther von Hagens, also known as Dr Death, triggered horror across the world with his work linked to human dead bodies. He preserved human corpses for his Body Worlds exhibits. Once, he even conducted a post-mortem examination in public. The crux of his work was the "plastination process" where the body fluids were replaced with liquid plastic that then hardens. von Hagens' family and the Institute for Plastination said that he died on July 24. His last wish was to undergo the plastination process as well. He started developing the technique in the 1970s, which prevents the body from decaying with tissues left intact. He then displayed the preserved corpses and their inner organs at exhibits. It sounds unreal, but this revolting practice is something that he became famous for. Now his own body will be put through the same process, as revealed by his family, who have already made it available for plastination. Von Hagens was admitted to a clinic in Heidelberg, Germany, with a brain haemorrhage and died a day later. "It was Gunther von Hagens' own wish to make his body available for plastination after his death," the statement read. "His family will respect and carry out this wish." Defending his work, Von Hagens used to say that it was a way to help people understand how their bodies work. "I touch here a taboo, which is our body, and nothing is so near as our body is to us," he said. He used the bodies of people who agreed to donate them for plastination after their death. Meanwhile, critics said that his work bordered on sensationalism. Rev Ernst Pulsfort, spiritual rector of Berlin’s Catholic Academy, said that he "plays with the corpses like a child plays with dolls." One of his works showed a human body on a plastinated horse, while one was of a pregnant woman with a protruding belly. At the Body Worlds show in London in 2002, he conducted Britain’s first public post-mortem examination in 170 years. Hundreds of people attended despite government warnings that it might be illegal.

<p>Gunther von Hagens was a German anatomist who replaced body fluids in a dead body with plastic and exhibited it. He was widely criticised for his work. However, he has now died, and his last wish was to put his own body through the plastination process. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

German anatomist 'Dr Death's' family to grant his creepy last wish

Germany is witnessing its first major cabinet reshuffle under Chancellor Friedrich Merz after a political controversy forced a senior minister to resign. The shake-up follows the resignation of senior CDU leader Jens Spahn, triggering significant changes within Germany's federal government. Chancellor Merz has appointed new ministers and indicated that additional cabinet changes could follow in the coming days. The political overhaul comes as Germany faces economic challenges, declining public approval, and growing political pressure from the Alternative for Germany (AfD).

Germany in political turmoil | Friedrich Merz reshuffles Cabinet after minister's resignation

<p>German MP Kathi Gebel delivered another scorcher in the parliament during a debate on abortion rights. She told the fellow male MP that if he so badly wants to protect unborn life, he should "stop having sex", as that is the best contraceptive. "How often should I still provide sex education to you? Really!" she ended with another banger.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"If the gentlemen of the AfD—and it really is almost exclusively gentlemen—truly want to protect unborn life so much, then I can only advise them to perhaps simply not have sex, because after all, abstinence is the safest method of contraception," Kathi said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>She added, "They want to preferably impose a forced pregnancy on women, but don't care about what the consequences of that are for the women." Talking about abortion rights in Germany, Kathi said, “But the biggest scandal is that in Germany, abortions are still prohibited, criminally sanctioned, and only exempt from punishment under certain conditions.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"While this is being sold to us as some kind of social compromise that doesn't even exist, one has to recognise that 80% of people in Germany feel that Paragraph 218 should be struck from the criminal code without replacement."</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/absolute-queen-german-politician-kathi-gebel-sparks-massive-reactions-for-her-witty-remarks-in-parliament-1782363239920"><strong>'Absolute queen': German politician Kathi Gebel shuts down MP with savage 'clitoris' comeback</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Kathi Gebel's clitoris remark</strong></h2><p>Kathi previously went viral for her "clitoris" remark, telling an MP that the female sex organ has more than 3,000 nerve endings, and he is still more sensitive. "The clitoris has 3000 nerve endings, and you are still more sensitive. To get to that point is quite something!"</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

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overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZw1II1M8kl/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Kathi Gebel MdB (@genossin.gebel)</a></p></div></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p><p>Her latest debate has won her more applause. "Don’t know what to say. You’re a brilliant rhetorician and it’s a pleasure to see (listen to) how you, with tremendous dedication, stands up for equality in all forms against the far-right," a user wrote. Another said, "She is such a strong voice. The world needs to listen." A user wrote, "She is awesome! Can articulate super well and argue super fluently. We need more women like that."</p>

German MP Kathi Gebel told an AfD male member that if he cares so much about unborn life, the best course would be to stop having sex, as it is the best contraceptive. She brought the ceiling down by suggesting how often “should I still provide sex education?”

German MP Kathi Gebel delivered another scorcher in the parliament during a debate on abortion rights. She told the fellow male MP that if he so badly wants to protect unborn life, he should "stop having sex", as that is the best contraceptive. "How often should I still provide sex education to you? Really!" she ended with another banger. "If the gentlemen of the AfD—and it really is almost exclusively gentlemen—truly want to protect unborn life so much, then I can only advise them to perhaps simply not have sex, because after all, abstinence is the safest method of contraception," Kathi said. She added, "They want to preferably impose a forced pregnancy on women, but don't care about what the consequences of that are for the women." Talking about abortion rights in Germany, Kathi said, “But the biggest scandal is that in Germany, abortions are still prohibited, criminally sanctioned, and only exempt from punishment under certain conditions.”

<p>German MP Kathi Gebel told an AfD male member that if he cares so much about unborn life, the best course would be to stop having sex, as it is the best contraceptive. She brought the ceiling down by suggesting how often “should I still provide sex education?”</p>

MP who went viral for 'cl*****s' remark, drops another banger, tells MP to 'stop having sex' during abortion debate

<p>A shooting incident at a school in the southern German state of Bavaria on Wednesday left several people injured. German newspaper BILD reported that the incident happened at the Welfen-Gymnasium in Schongau, southwest of Munich. A suspect has been arrested, and numerous forces are operating at the scene. Initial reports suggest that this was a planned killing spree.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"A suspected perpetrator has been arrested," the police confirmed in a post on X. "The number of people involved and the severity of the injuries are currently being clarified." The high school is located in the town of Schongau, which has more than 12,000 residents.'</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>More than 15 patrol cars were dispatched to the scene. A police officer told Bavarian broadcaster BR that chances are that this could turn into a possible shooting spree and urged the public to avoid the area. A spokesperson told BILD, "We cannot rule out the possibility of a school shooting." The police were alerted at around 12.50 pm local time.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Many victims also have stab wounds. It is not clear how many of them are students and how many are teachers. Initially, the police said four people were injured, but later refused to give a number.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Some of them were attacked inside the building, and some outside. The perpetrator tried to flee the scene but was caught.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In June, a shooter attacked a shelter for mothers and children in northern Germany, in which six people died. The victims - four women and two men - were employees at the facility.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Mass shootings are rare in Germany. In 2023, a gunman in Hamburg shot ​dead six people at a Jehovah's Witness worship hall. In 2016, an 18-year-old ‌German-Iranian man killed at least nine people in Munich.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i><strong>This is a Breaking story…</strong></i></p>

German school attack today: The incident in the German state of Bavaria on Wednesday left several injured. The suspect has been arrested. Police urged people to stay away from the area as a shooting spree is possible. 

A shooting incident at a school in the southern German state of Bavaria on Wednesday left several people injured. German newspaper BILD reported that the incident happened at the Welfen-Gymnasium in Schongau, southwest of Munich. A suspect has been arrested, and numerous forces are operating at the scene. Initial reports suggest that this was a planned killing spree. "A suspected perpetrator has been arrested," the police confirmed in a post on X. "The number of people involved and the severity of the injuries are currently being clarified." The high school is located in the town of Schongau, which has more than 12,000 residents.' More than 15 patrol cars were dispatched to the scene. A police officer told Bavarian broadcaster BR that chances are that this could turn into a possible shooting spree and urged the public to avoid the area. A spokesperson told BILD, "We cannot rule out the possibility of a school shooting." The police were alerted at around 12.50 pm local time. Many victims also have stab wounds. It is not clear how many of them are students and how many are teachers. Initially, the police said four people were injured, but later refused to give a number. Some of them were attacked inside the building, and some outside. The perpetrator tried to flee the scene but was caught. In June, a shooter attacked a shelter for mothers and children in northern Germany, in which six people died. The victims - four women and two men - were employees at the facility. Mass shootings are rare in Germany. In 2023, a gunman in Hamburg shot dead six people at a Jehovah's Witness worship hall. In 2016, an 18-year-old ‌German-Iranian man killed at least nine people in Munich. This is a Breaking story…

<p>German school attack today: The incident in the German state of Bavaria on Wednesday left several injured. The suspect has been arrested. Police urged people to stay away from the area as a shooting spree is possible.&nbsp;</p>

Attack on school in Bavaria, Germany, leaves several injured; police flag possible shooting spree

<p>At least six people were killed in a mass shooting at a youth welfare facility in the town ⁠of Stade in ⁠northern Germany, and two suspects, including the shooter, have been arrested, police said on Monday, adding that a motive is currently unknown.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Initially, police reported the death of five adults but later said the toll had risen to six. Five people died at the scene, while the sixth died in hospital due to injuries sustained during the shooting.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Lüneburg Police Directorate said in a press statement that police have arrested one main perpetrator, while two others are currently under investigation. Their involvement in the crime is the subject of further inquiries. “As of now, five people have died at the scene, and a sixth person has succumbed to their injuries in the hospital. All the deceased were adults,” the statement said.</p><p><br>Among the six dead were four women and a man, while several people were wounded, some of them seriously, German news agency dpa reported, citing police officials. However, they did not provide a specific figure or information on the victims' identities.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Police said the shooting took place in the facility on Dankersstrasse, a street south of the town centre. The youth welfare facility includes temporary accommodation for pregnant women or young mothers with children.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>There was no danger to the public, police said. Video footage from the scene after the shooting showed a large police presence, along with other emergency service personnel and several ambulances on a residential street.</p><p><br>Earlier, in a post on X, Lüneburg police headquarters urged the public to avoid the area.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="de" dir="ltr">+++ACHTUNG – Polizeieinsatz in der Dankersstraße in Stade+++<br>Derzeit kommt es in Stade zu einer polizeilichen Einsatzlage. Meidet den Bereich weiträumig!<br>Einsatzbegleitende Informationen erhaltet ihr auf dem WhatsApp-Kanal der Polizei Stade unter:<a href="https://t.co/LeoOTiCZOz">https://t.co/LeoOTiCZOz</a> <a href="https://t.co/12fvSVxH8I">pic.twitter.com/12fvSVxH8I</a></p>&mdash; Polizeidirektion Lüneburg (@Polizei_LG) <a href="https://x.com/Polizei_LG/status/2071557736978940335?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Shots were fired near a youth centre in the city centrr,” the German DPA news agency quoted a police spokesperson as saying.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Stade police said in a statement shared on WhatsApp that a “major operation” was underway on Dankersstraße and called on citizens to steer clear of the area and follow the instructions of the emergency services on the scene.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Stade has about 50,000 inhabitants and is located west of Hamburg.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-refuses-urgent-hearing-of-ram-temple-petitions-saying-heavens-are-not-going-to-fall-1782739148242"><strong>Supreme Court refuses urgent hearing of Ram Temple petitions, saying, 'Heavens are not going to fall’</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“No other suspects are at large, and all the five dead are adults,” said police, adding that there was no danger to the public now.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Police said they were working to establish the background to the shooting and what exactly happened.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The gun laws in Germany are more restrictive than those in the United States, and mass shootings are rare but not unheard-of.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/zero-tolerance-for-any-attempt-to-exploit-sanatan-faith-of-devotees-says-cm-yogi-after-arrests-in-ram-temple-donation-theft-case-1782473006937"><strong>‘Zero tolerance for any attempt to exploit Sanatan, faith of devotees,’ says CM Yogi after arrests in Ram temple donation theft case</strong></a></p><p><br>The police also warned that unconfirmed information about the situation on the ground was being shared in chat groups and social media.</p><p>“The accounts [of events]&nbsp;currently circulating do not correspond to the facts as confirmed by the police,” it wrote in a WhatsApp statement and urged the public to refrain from sharing unverified reports, voice messages or&nbsp;rumours.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“This can cause uncertainty and hamper police operations,” said officials.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Local police said in a statement shared on WhatsApp that a “major operation” was underway on Dankersstraße and called on all citizens to steer clear of the area and follow the instructions of the emergency services on the scene.

At least six people were killed in a mass shooting at a youth welfare facility in the town ⁠of Stade in ⁠northern Germany, and two suspects, including the shooter, have been arrested, police said on Monday, adding that a motive is currently unknown. Initially, police reported the death of five adults but later said the toll had risen to six. Five people died at the scene, while the sixth died in hospital due to injuries sustained during the shooting. Lüneburg Police Directorate said in a press statement that police have arrested one main perpetrator, while two others are currently under investigation. Their involvement in the crime is the subject of further inquiries. “As of now, five people have died at the scene, and a sixth person has succumbed to their injuries in the hospital. All the deceased were adults,” the statement said. Among the six dead were four women and a man, while several people were wounded, some of them seriously, German news agency dpa reported, citing police officials. However, they did not provide a specific figure or information on the victims' identities. Police said the shooting took place in the facility on Dankersstrasse, a street south of the town centre. The youth welfare facility includes temporary accommodation for pregnant women or young mothers with children. There was no danger to the public, police said. Video footage from the scene after the shooting showed a large police presence, along with other emergency service personnel and several ambulances on a residential street. Earlier, in a post on X, Lüneburg police headquarters urged the public to avoid the area.

<p>Local police said in a statement shared on WhatsApp that a “major operation” was underway on Dankersstraße and called on all citizens to steer clear of the area and follow the instructions of the emergency services on the scene.</p>

At least six killed in mass shooting in northern Germany’s Stade town; suspect arrested, say police

In Germany, 67-year-old Daniela Klette was sentenced to 13 years in jail for a spate of robberies and kidnappings between 1999 and 2016. She was considered Germany's most-wanted woman after evading police for three decades. She was finally arrested in February 2024.

Germany's Most-Wanted Woman Gets 13 Years In Jail After 3 Decades On The Run

<p>In western Germany, thieves took advantage of the Christmas lull to pull off a major heist at a retail bank. They drilled into a vault and emptied thousands of safe deposit boxes. Police say the haul is worth around 30 million euros (about $35 million) and includes valuables from customer deposit boxes. Here's what happened.</p><h2><strong>How did thieves carry out the heist?</strong></h2><p>The break-in happened at a branch of Sparkasse in the city of Gelsenkirchen. According to investigators, the suspects drilled through a thick concrete wall before gaining access to the vault. Once inside, they forced open several thousand customer deposit boxes, making off with cash, jewellery and other valuables. The total loss, police said, runs into the double-digit millions; estimates suggest loot was around 30 million euros (about $35 million).</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-mamdani-epstein-hasina-pope-leo-xiv-elon-musk-luigi-mangione-shubhanshu-shukla-global-headlines-2025-most-talked-about-people-1766740930763"><strong>Trump, Epstein, Mamdani and more: 2025’s most talked-about people</strong></a></p><p>The timing appears deliberate. In Germany, most banks and shops shut down over the Christmas period, starting on the evening of December 24. Due to this, the damage went unnoticed for days. Police were only alerted in the early hours of Monday, December 29, after a fire alarm went off inside the building.</p><h2><strong>"Let us in"</strong></h2><p>By Tuesday morning, anger and frustration had spilt onto the street, reports CNN. Dozens of angry customers gathered outside the now-closed branch, chanting "Let us in!" and demanding answers. "I couldn't sleep last night. We're getting no information," one customer told broadcaster Welt. Another said that he stored cash and jewellery accumulated over decades in his looted deposit box.</p><p>Many said they had received little or no information about what had been taken or when they might be allowed access. The bank is yet to issue a statement.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-catastrophic-conditions-israel-to-suspend-dozens-of-aid-groups-in-gaza-within-36-hours-1767143221513"><strong>Israel to suspend dozens of aid groups in Gaza within 36 hours. Here's why</strong></a></p><h2><strong>What's happening now?</strong></h2><p>Police said witnesses reported seeing several men carrying large bags through the stairwell of a nearby parking garage late on Saturday night. There were also sightings of a black Audi RS6 leaving the garage early on Monday morning, with masked men inside. Investigators later confirmed the licence plate belonged to a car stolen in Hanover, more than 200 kilometres northeast of Gelsenkirchen.</p><p>Officers are now reviewing CCTV footage and appealing for further witnesses.&nbsp;</p>

Thieves exploited the Christmas shutdown to pull off a massive bank heist in western Germany, drilling into a vault and emptying thousands of deposit boxes. Losses have been pegged at nearly €30 million (about $35 million).

In western Germany, thieves took advantage of the Christmas lull to pull off a major heist at a retail bank. They drilled into a vault and emptied thousands of safe deposit boxes. Police say the haul is worth around 30 million euros (about $35 million) and includes valuables from customer deposit boxes. Here's what happened. How did thieves carry out the heist? The break-in happened at a branch of Sparkasse in the city of Gelsenkirchen. According to investigators, the suspects drilled through a thick concrete wall before gaining access to the vault. Once inside, they forced open several thousand customer deposit boxes, making off with cash, jewellery and other valuables. The total loss, police said, runs into the double-digit millions; estimates suggest loot was around 30 million euros (about $35 million). Also read | Trump, Epstein, Mamdani and more: 2025’s most talked-about people The timing appears deliberate. In Germany, most banks and shops shut down over the Christmas period, starting on the evening of December 24. Due to this, the damage went unnoticed for days. Police were only alerted in the early hours of Monday, December 29, after a fire alarm went off inside the building. "Let us in" By Tuesday morning, anger and frustration had spilt onto the street, reports CNN. Dozens of angry customers gathered outside the now-closed branch, chanting "Let us in!" and demanding answers. "I couldn't sleep last night. We're getting no information," one customer told broadcaster Welt. Another said that he stored cash and jewellery accumulated over decades in his looted deposit box. Many said they had received little or no information about what had been taken or when they might be allowed access. The bank is yet to issue a statement. Also read | Israel to suspend dozens of aid groups in Gaza within 36 hours. Here's why What's happening now? Police said witnesses reported seeing several men carrying large bags through the stairwell of a nearby parking garage late on Saturday night. There were also sightings of a black Audi RS6 leaving the garage early on Monday morning, with masked men inside. Investigators later confirmed the licence plate belonged to a car stolen in Hanover, more than 200 kilometres northeast of Gelsenkirchen. Officers are now reviewing CCTV footage and appealing for further witnesses.

<p>Thieves exploited the Christmas shutdown to pull off a massive bank heist in western Germany, drilling into a vault and emptying thousands of deposit boxes. Losses have been pegged at nearly €30 million (about $35 million).</p>

Massive Christmas bank heist in Germany: Thieves drill into vault, loot $35 million

<p>Germany has developed a unique concept that combines public transportation with nightlife, transforming subway cars and train carriages into mobile nightclubs. The concept has been dubbed “Techno Subway Party,” which transforms regular trains into clubs. During the ride, DJs perform live techno sets inside the subway cars, creating a high-energy, club-like atmosphere.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A video surfaced on social media shows passengers in the metro coaches dancing to the electronic beats and enjoying the festive mood in the train. In the next scene, a DJ is seen playing the playlist and dancing with the people surrounding him.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🚨⚡️Crazy idea <br><br>Germans invent a new way where a unique event called the &quot;Techno Subway Party&quot; transforms subway cars into mobile parties. <br><br>DJs deliver live performances while passengers dance and enjoy a club-like atmosphere on board the train, from late afternoon until… <a href="https://t.co/f5ydFXIwLQ">pic.twitter.com/f5ydFXIwLQ</a></p>&mdash; RussiaNews 🇷🇺 (@mog_russEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/mog_russEN/status/2000581067087245387?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>The event typically runs from late afternoon until evening, drawing music lovers and curious commuters alike. The initiative showcases the innovative approach to urban culture in Germany, reimagining everyday spaces as platforms for shared entertainment and community-driven experiences.</p><h3>About Techno Subway Party</h3><p>The event was launched in 2019 by Nuremberg nightclub Haus 33. The moving nightclub runs only twice a year, and it has only two official stops: where it starts and where it ends. The journey of the party begins at Frankenstadion station at about 4 pm, and travels around 100km towards Wurzburg, then loops back to Nuremberg Central Station by about 11 pm.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The train consists of 12 carriages, three of which are converted into dedicated dance floors equipped with DJ consoles, sound systems and onboard bars. Nearly 25 DJs perform throughout the journey as hundreds of revellers move between different coaches. Each ride is capped at around 700 tickets, which sell out within seconds despite minimal promotion.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The place always remains strictly under the security measures. In line with transport regulations requiring seating for every passenger, calmer chill-out carriages are also provided alongside the high-energy party zones.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/statue-of-liberty-powerful-storms-topple-replica-in-brazil-s-rio-grande-do-sul-here-s-what-happened-next-watch-1765860477164">Statue of Liberty: Powerful storms topple replica of structure in Brazil's Rio Grande do Sul; Here's what happened next — WATCH</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

The event typically runs from late afternoon until evening, drawing music lovers and curious commuters alike. The initiative showcases the innovative approach to urban culture in Germany, reimagining everyday spaces as platforms for shared entertainment and community-driven experiences.

Germany has developed a unique concept that combines public transportation with nightlife, transforming subway cars and train carriages into mobile nightclubs. The concept has been dubbed “Techno Subway Party,” which transforms regular trains into clubs. During the ride, DJs perform live techno sets inside the subway cars, creating a high-energy, club-like atmosphere. A video surfaced on social media shows passengers in the metro coaches dancing to the electronic beats and enjoying the festive mood in the train. In the next scene, a DJ is seen playing the playlist and dancing with the people surrounding him.

<p>The event typically runs from late afternoon until evening, drawing music lovers and curious commuters alike. The initiative showcases the innovative approach to urban culture in Germany, reimagining everyday spaces as platforms for shared entertainment and community-driven experiences.</p>

WATCH: Metro coaches in Germany turn into moving nightclubs, people dance to live DJ & electronic music

<p>German authorities arrested five men suspected of being involved in a plot to drive a vehicle into people at a Christmas market in Southern Bavaria. Three men of Moroccan origins, one of Egyptian origin and one from Syria were detained on Friday over hatching a conspiracy to orchestrate an attack in a market. Authorities said they suspected an Islamic motive behind the plot.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Prosecutors said the Egyptian,56, allegedly called for a vehicle attack aimed at killing or injuring as many people as possible. Two Moroccans reportedly agreed to carry out the plot.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bondi-beach-terror-attack-12-killed-29-taken-to-hospital-what-we-know-about-the-suspects-so-far-1765725217367"><strong>Bondi Beach terror attack: 12 killed, 29 taken to hospital. What we know about the&nbsp;suspects&nbsp;so&nbsp;far</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Three Moroccan men, aged 30, 28 and 22, were arrested for allegedly agreeing to commit murder, while a 37-year-old Syrian man was accused of encouraging them to carry out the crime, according to the police.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The five suspects appeared before a magistrate on Saturday and remain in custody.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sydney-terror-attack-australia-poured-oil-on-fire-of-antisemitism-says-israel-prime-minister-benjamin-netanyahu-1765719636343"><strong>Sydney terror attack: Australia 'poured oil on fire of antisemitism', says Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>German authorities remain on high alert following previous attacks at Christmas markets, including last December in Magdeburg, which killed six people. These popular festive markets draw large crowds and tourists, prompting heightened security since the 2016 Berlin attack, when a lorry drove into a market, killing 12.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

The Christmas markets in Germany drew massive crowds and had been targets of such attacks, including in Magdeburg last December which killed six people.

German authorities arrested five men suspected of being involved in a plot to drive a vehicle into people at a Christmas market in Southern Bavaria. Three men of Moroccan origins, one of Egyptian origin and one from Syria were detained on Friday over hatching a conspiracy to orchestrate an attack in a market. Authorities said they suspected an Islamic motive behind the plot. Prosecutors said the Egyptian,56, allegedly called for a vehicle attack aimed at killing or injuring as many people as possible. Two Moroccans reportedly agreed to carry out the plot. Also Read: Bondi Beach terror attack: 12 killed, 29 taken to hospital. What we know about the suspects so far Three Moroccan men, aged 30, 28 and 22, were arrested for allegedly agreeing to commit murder, while a 37-year-old Syrian man was accused of encouraging them to carry out the crime, according to the police. The five suspects appeared before a magistrate on Saturday and remain in custody. Also Read: Sydney terror attack: Australia 'poured oil on fire of antisemitism', says Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu German authorities remain on high alert following previous attacks at Christmas markets, including last December in Magdeburg, which killed six people. These popular festive markets draw large crowds and tourists, prompting heightened security since the 2016 Berlin attack, when a lorry drove into a market, killing 12.

<p>The Christmas markets in Germany drew massive crowds and had been targets of such attacks, including in Magdeburg last December, which killed six people.</p>

Germany arrests five men over suspected Christmas market attack plot

<p>German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Tuesday warned of possible Russian interference in next year's Armenian parliamentary election, saying Moscow is trying to prevent closer ties between the landlocked Caucasus nation and the EU. "It has become a distressing normality that elections are attacked by enemies of democracy," Merz said at a press conference in Berlin alongside his Armenian counterpart Nikol Pashinyan.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Merz accused Russia of "trying to scare voters in Armenia" and "spreading untruths about the goals and values of the European Union" through "disinformation and sabotage".</p><p>"It's not only Europe that Russia is trying to destabilise through hybrid means, but Armenia too," he added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In March, Armenia's parliament passed a bill launching the country's bid for EU membership, as the historically Russia-allied country drifts further away from Moscow's orbit.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to a translation provided by the German chancellery, Pashinyan said at the press conference that Armenia had already experienced an election in 2021 "under very difficult circumstances" and that the country "had experience with disinformation".</p><p>Russia is blamed by Western security services for a spate of drone flights, acts of sabotage, cyberattacks and online disinformation campaigns in Europe, which have escalated since Moscow's 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Merz encouraged Pashinyan to move closer to the EU, saying "there is now a historic opportunity for Armenia to embark on the path towards Europe" but cautioned that the country would have to "meet many conditions to join the European Union, including the Copenhagen criteria". In August, Armenia and its longtime arch-foe Azerbaijan committed to peace after decades of territorial conflict in a deal brokered by the White House.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</i><br>&nbsp;</p>

Merz accused Russia of "trying to scare voters in Armenia" and "spreading untruths about the goals and values of the European Union" through "disinformation and sabotage".

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Tuesday warned of possible Russian interference in next year's Armenian parliamentary election, saying Moscow is trying to prevent closer ties between the landlocked Caucasus nation and the EU. "It has become a distressing normality that elections are attacked by enemies of democracy," Merz said at a press conference in Berlin alongside his Armenian counterpart Nikol Pashinyan. Merz accused Russia of "trying to scare voters in Armenia" and "spreading untruths about the goals and values of the European Union" through "disinformation and sabotage". "It's not only Europe that Russia is trying to destabilise through hybrid means, but Armenia too," he added. In March, Armenia's parliament passed a bill launching the country's bid for EU membership, as the historically Russia-allied country drifts further away from Moscow's orbit. According to a translation provided by the German chancellery, Pashinyan said at the press conference that Armenia had already experienced an election in 2021 "under very difficult circumstances" and that the country "had experience with disinformation". Russia is blamed by Western security services for a spate of drone flights, acts of sabotage, cyberattacks and online disinformation campaigns in Europe, which have escalated since Moscow's 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Merz encouraged Pashinyan to move closer to the EU, saying "there is now a historic opportunity for Armenia to embark on the path towards Europe" but cautioned that the country would have to "meet many conditions to join the European Union, including the Copenhagen criteria". In August, Armenia and its longtime arch-foe Azerbaijan committed to peace after decades of territorial conflict in a deal brokered by the White House. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

<p>Merz accused Russia of "trying to scare voters in Armenia" and "spreading untruths about the goals and values of the European Union" through "disinformation and sabotage".</p>

Germany's Merz warns of Russian meddling in Armenia vote

<p>German police have arrested a man who allegedly made online calls on the darknet to kill politicians, including former chancellors Angela Merkel and Olaf Scholz, judicial sources said Tuesday. The suspect, a German-Polish man only partially named as Martin S., was detained late Monday in the western city of Dortmund, prosecutors said in a statement.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A source close to the investigation told AFP the man had acted alone, was linked to a right-wing conspiracy theorist movement, and that Merkel and Scholz were among those on his hit list. The man had allegedly issued anonymous calls since June for attacks on public figures and government officials, the Public Prosecutor's Office said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He also published instructions for building explosive devices and requested donations in cryptocurrencies, to be used as "bounties" for the killings. Prosecutors said he had posted "death sentences pronounced by himself" as well as the "sensitive personal data of potential victims".</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He is being investigated on charges including financing terrorism and inciting violence aimed at endangering the state.</p><p>Martin S. was brought before a judge on Tuesday and placed in pre-trial detention, prosecutors said. Spiegel Online reported that the 49-year-old suspect listed 20 targets, also including judges and prosecutors, on a site he had labelled "Assassination Politics". The site was filled with far-right content and conspiracy theories, some related to the coronavirus pandemic.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>German authorities have increasingly moved against a conspiracy theorist movement known as the "Citizens of the Reich" or "Reichsbuerger". The movement, which rejects the legitimacy of the modern German republic, was long dismissed as a group of malcontents and oddballs, but is now considered a security threat by German authorities.</p><p>In 2022, members of a group including an ex-MP and former soldiers were arrested over a plot to attack parliament, overthrow the government and install aristocrat and businessman Prince Heinrich XIII Reuss as head of state.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Disclaimer</strong>: <i>This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</i></p>

Spiegel Online reported that the 49-year-old suspect listed 20 targets, also including judges and prosecutors, on a site he had labelled "Assassination Politics". 

German police have arrested a man who allegedly made online calls on the darknet to kill politicians, including former chancellors Angela Merkel and Olaf Scholz, judicial sources said Tuesday. The suspect, a German-Polish man only partially named as Martin S., was detained late Monday in the western city of Dortmund, prosecutors said in a statement. A source close to the investigation told AFP the man had acted alone, was linked to a right-wing conspiracy theorist movement, and that Merkel and Scholz were among those on his hit list. The man had allegedly issued anonymous calls since June for attacks on public figures and government officials, the Public Prosecutor's Office said. He also published instructions for building explosive devices and requested donations in cryptocurrencies, to be used as "bounties" for the killings. Prosecutors said he had posted "death sentences pronounced by himself" as well as the "sensitive personal data of potential victims". He is being investigated on charges including financing terrorism and inciting violence aimed at endangering the state. Martin S. was brought before a judge on Tuesday and placed in pre-trial detention, prosecutors said. Spiegel Online reported that the 49-year-old suspect listed 20 targets, also including judges and prosecutors, on a site he had labelled "Assassination Politics". The site was filled with far-right content and conspiracy theories, some related to the coronavirus pandemic. German authorities have increasingly moved against a conspiracy theorist movement known as the "Citizens of the Reich" or "Reichsbuerger". The movement, which rejects the legitimacy of the modern German republic, was long dismissed as a group of malcontents and oddballs, but is now considered a security threat by German authorities. In 2022, members of a group including an ex-MP and former soldiers were arrested over a plot to attack parliament, overthrow the government and install aristocrat and businessman Prince Heinrich XIII Reuss as head of state. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

<p>Spiegel Online reported that the 49-year-old suspect listed 20 targets, also including judges and prosecutors, on a site he had labelled "Assassination Politics".&nbsp;</p>

German-Polish man plotting to kill politicians on darknet arrested, police reveal major details

<p>A German nurse has been found guilty of killing elderly patients because he simply didn't want to do his job and care for them. The 44-year-old administered lethal injections to the patients he was supposed to look after, killing 10 of them. He is accused of trying to murder 27 others. The court in the western city of Aachen handed him a life sentence for his offences, and no way for an early release after 15 years. The palliative nurse committed the crimes between December 2023 and May 2024 in a hospital in Würselen, near Aachen. Prosecutors said that he tried to play "master of life and death" over those in his care. The court determined the offences carried a "particular severity of guilt". According to the charges, the man, who has not been named, gave lethal doses of sedatives or painkillers to elderly patients because he wanted to relax during the night shifts.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The injections given to the patients included morphine and midazolam, a muscle relaxant that is also sometimes used for executions in the United States. The prosecutors told the court that the man suffered from a personality disorder and had no compassion for the patients. The trial, which began in March, has him showing no remorse for his actions. They added that he &nbsp;worked "without enthusiasm" and "with no motivation." He lacked empathy for patients who needed a higher level of care and showed "irritation." More patients are being exhumed, and he might go on trial again.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Chilling reminder of Germany's most prolific serial killer</strong></h2><p>The nurse completed his training in 2007, worked at different places before taking up a job at the Wuerselen hospital. The case is a chilling reminder of another German nurse who was termed modern Germany's most prolific serial killer. Niels Hoegel murdered 85 patients between 2000 and 2005 with lethal injections. Psychiatrists said he suffered from a "severe narcissistic disorder." A similar case came to light once again in Germany, when a 40-year-old palliative care specialist named Johannes M went on trial in July for killing 15 patients between 2021 and 2024. He even set fire to the homes of five of these people to cover up his crime.</p>

A German nurse gave lethal injections to patients under his care because he didn't wish to spend time working on the night shift. Ten of them died. Prosecutors say he showed no remorse for his actions. He has been sentenced to life.

A German nurse has been found guilty of killing elderly patients because he simply didn't want to do his job and care for them. The 44-year-old administered lethal injections to the patients he was supposed to look after, killing 10 of them. He is accused of trying to murder 27 others. The court in the western city of Aachen handed him a life sentence for his offences, and no way for an early release after 15 years. The palliative nurse committed the crimes between December 2023 and May 2024 in a hospital in Würselen, near Aachen. Prosecutors said that he tried to play "master of life and death" over those in his care. The court determined the offences carried a "particular severity of guilt". According to the charges, the man, who has not been named, gave lethal doses of sedatives or painkillers to elderly patients because he wanted to relax during the night shifts. The injections given to the patients included morphine and midazolam, a muscle relaxant that is also sometimes used for executions in the United States. The prosecutors told the court that the man suffered from a personality disorder and had no compassion for the patients. The trial, which began in March, has him showing no remorse for his actions. They added that he worked "without enthusiasm" and "with no motivation." He lacked empathy for patients who needed a higher level of care and showed "irritation." More patients are being exhumed, and he might go on trial again. Chilling reminder of Germany's most prolific serial killer The nurse completed his training in 2007, worked at different places before taking up a job at the Wuerselen hospital. The case is a chilling reminder of another German nurse who was termed modern Germany's most prolific serial killer. Niels Hoegel murdered 85 patients between 2000 and 2005 with lethal injections. Psychiatrists said he suffered from a "severe narcissistic disorder." A similar case came to light once again in Germany, when a 40-year-old palliative care specialist named Johannes M went on trial in July for killing 15 patients between 2021 and 2024. He even set fire to the homes of five of these people to cover up his crime.

<p>A German nurse gave lethal injections to patients under his care because he didn't wish to spend time working on the night shift. Ten of them died. Prosecutors say he showed no remorse for his actions. He has been sentenced to life.</p>

German nurse annoyed with night shift kills 10 patients with 'execution' injections

<p>Germany’s cabinet passed a draft bill on Wednesday that would introduce a voluntary military service as the country seeks to bolster national defences over Russian security concerns. It will also open the door for the reintroduction of compulsory enlistment. The bill is part of a move to bolster German national defences, following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The government hopes the voluntary six-month scheme will help double the number of trained reservists from around 100,000 now and that some of them will go on to have a career in active service.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Compulsory military service in Germany was ended in 2011 under then-Chancellor Angela Merkel, and it has since struggled to meet troop targets.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Chancellor Friedrich Merz has made boosting Germany’s military a priority given the threat from Russia and said, “We are now back on the path to a military service army.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>WATCH: German jets scramble to intercept Russian spy plane</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/german-jets-scramble-to-intercept-russian-spy-plane-1756314861354/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/german-jets-scramble-to-intercept-russian-spy-plane-1756314861354/embed</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Pistorius wants to increase soldiers to meet new NATO force targets</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Defence Minister Boris Pistorius wants to increase the number of soldiers from 180,000 to 260,000 by the early 2030s to meet new NATO force targets. Germany’s plans also follow calls by US President Donald Trump for Europe to take more responsibility for its own defence.&nbsp;</p><p>The Merz government has loosened borrowing restrictions to enable a surge in defence spending.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In future, all 18-year-old Germans, both men and women, will be sent an online questionnaire asking if they are willing to volunteer for military service. It will include questions about their physical fitness.</p><p>Men will be required to complete the form, but it will be voluntary for women.</p><p>The government has said that military service would be voluntary for as long as possible, but if the security situation worsens or if too few volunteers come forward, the government could decide to use compulsion with the approval of the German parliament, the Bundestag.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In recent years, the defence ministry has increased advertising campaigns and career events to recruit soldiers, and the results are showing.</p><p>The Bundeswehr has reported a 28% increase in the number of new recruits in the first six months of this year compared to last year.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Plan faces criticism from coalition partner&nbsp;</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Some members of Pistorius’s Social Democrat party, the junior coalition partner, have criticised the plan, saying the Bundeswehr should be made a more attractive employer rather than re-introducing compulsory service.</p><p>Members of Chancellor Merz’s conservatives warn that the insistence on approval by the Bundestag for reintroducing conscription could delay matters a lot.</p><p>Meanwhile, anti-war group Rheinmetal Entwaffnen said in a post on social media, “We want nothing to do with the wars of the ruling classes and are not prepared to die for a country that is increasingly cutting back on all social infrastructure. We will not fight your wars!”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Cabinet approves creation of National Security Council</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The German government has also approved the establishment of a National Security Council (NSR) for streamlining security policy and decision-making in times of crisis.</p><p>The NSR, to be chaired by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, will meet regularly and will include key ministers as well as officials from allied countries and organizations, including the European Union and NATO.</p><p>“Russia has long been carrying out hybrid attacks against us,” said Merz, highlighting “massive interference” in German democracy and targeted attacks on IT security.</p>

The German government has said that military service would be voluntary for as long as possible, but if the security situation worsens or if too few volunteers come forward, it could decide to use compulsion with the approval of the German parliament, the Bundestag.

Germany’s cabinet passed a draft bill on Wednesday that would introduce a voluntary military service as the country seeks to bolster national defences over Russian security concerns. It will also open the door for the reintroduction of compulsory enlistment. The bill is part of a move to bolster German national defences, following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The government hopes the voluntary six-month scheme will help double the number of trained reservists from around 100,000 now and that some of them will go on to have a career in active service. Compulsory military service in Germany was ended in 2011 under then-Chancellor Angela Merkel, and it has since struggled to meet troop targets. Chancellor Friedrich Merz has made boosting Germany’s military a priority given the threat from Russia and said, “We are now back on the path to a military service army.” WATCH: German jets scramble to intercept Russian spy plane https://www.wionews.com/videos/german-jets-scramble-to-intercept-russian-spy-plane-1756314861354/embed Pistorius wants to increase soldiers to meet new NATO force targets Defence Minister Boris Pistorius wants to increase the number of soldiers from 180,000 to 260,000 by the early 2030s to meet new NATO force targets. Germany’s plans also follow calls by US President Donald Trump for Europe to take more responsibility for its own defence. The Merz government has loosened borrowing restrictions to enable a surge in defence spending. In future, all 18-year-old Germans, both men and women, will be sent an online questionnaire asking if they are willing to volunteer for military service. It will include questions about their physical fitness. Men will be required to complete the form, but it will be voluntary for women. The government has said that military service would be voluntary for as long as possible, but if the security situation worsens or if too few volunteers come forward, the government could decide to use compulsion with the approval of the German parliament, the Bundestag. In recent years, the defence ministry has increased advertising campaigns and career events to recruit soldiers, and the results are showing. The Bundeswehr has reported a 28% increase in the number of new recruits in the first six months of this year compared to last year. Plan faces criticism from coalition partner Some members of Pistorius’s Social Democrat party, the junior coalition partner, have criticised the plan, saying the Bundeswehr should be made a more attractive employer rather than re-introducing compulsory service. Members of Chancellor Merz’s conservatives warn that the insistence on approval by the Bundestag for reintroducing conscription could delay matters a lot. Meanwhile, anti-war group Rheinmetal Entwaffnen said in a post on social media, “We want nothing to do with the wars of the ruling classes and are not prepared to die for a country that is increasingly cutting back on all social infrastructure. We will not fight your wars!” Cabinet approves creation of National Security Council The German government has also approved the establishment of a National Security Council (NSR) for streamlining security policy and decision-making in times of crisis. The NSR, to be chaired by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, will meet regularly and will include key ministers as well as officials from allied countries and organizations, including the European Union and NATO. “Russia has long been carrying out hybrid attacks against us,” said Merz, highlighting “massive interference” in German democracy and targeted attacks on IT security.

<p>The German government has said that military service would be voluntary for as long as possible, but if the security situation worsens or if too few volunteers come forward, it could decide to use compulsion with the approval of the German parliament, the Bundestag.</p>

German cabinet passes bill for voluntary military service, paves way for conscription to bolster defence

<p>At least three people were killed, and several others injured when a passenger train derailed in a forested area of southwestern Germany on Sunday (Jul 27) evening, police said. The accident, as per reports, happened around 6:10 pm local time (1610 GMT) near the town of Riedlingen in Baden-Württemberg state. At the time, approximately 100 passengers were on board the train. As per reports, authorities initially reported four fatalities but later revised the toll to three. While police are yet to release a statement on the number of injured, local German media reports suggest that as many as 50 people were injured in the accident.</p><h2><strong>What happened?</strong></h2><p>As per German rail operator Deutsche Bahn, two carriages of the train, which was en route from Sigmaringen to the city of Ulm, derailed "for reasons yet unknown". Subsequently, traffic on a 40-kilometre (25-mile) stretch of the line has been suspended as investigations continue. The train operator confirmed several deaths and numerous injured passengers, but didn't specify the number. German media outlet Bild, citing emergency responders, reports that up to 50 people were injured, though police have not confirmed an exact number or the severity of the injuries.</p><p>Local media reports suggest that a possible landslide following severe storms earlier in the day may have caused the derailment. Footage from the crash site showed the yellow-and-grey-coloured train carriages lying on their sides amid trees as emergency services worked to rescue and treat the injured. &nbsp;Local TV station SWR reports that shortly after the accident, helicopters arrived at the transport the injured to nearby hospitals. In addition, emergency doctors from nearby hospitals were deployed to the scene of the accident.</p><h2><strong>Outdated train infrastructure to blame?</strong></h2><p>AFP reports that German transport faces regular criticism from passengers for its outdated infrastructure that causes frequent train delays and technical problems. The German government has pledged several hundred billion worth of investment over the next few years for the modernisation of the train infrastructure.</p>

While police are yet to release a statement on the number of injured, local German media reports suggest that as many as 50 people were injured in the accident.

At least three people were killed, and several others injured when a passenger train derailed in a forested area of southwestern Germany on Sunday (Jul 27) evening, police said. The accident, as per reports, happened around 6:10 pm local time (1610 GMT) near the town of Riedlingen in Baden-Württemberg state. At the time, approximately 100 passengers were on board the train. As per reports, authorities initially reported four fatalities but later revised the toll to three. While police are yet to release a statement on the number of injured, local German media reports suggest that as many as 50 people were injured in the accident. What happened? As per German rail operator Deutsche Bahn, two carriages of the train, which was en route from Sigmaringen to the city of Ulm, derailed "for reasons yet unknown". Subsequently, traffic on a 40-kilometre (25-mile) stretch of the line has been suspended as investigations continue. The train operator confirmed several deaths and numerous injured passengers, but didn't specify the number. German media outlet Bild, citing emergency responders, reports that up to 50 people were injured, though police have not confirmed an exact number or the severity of the injuries. Local media reports suggest that a possible landslide following severe storms earlier in the day may have caused the derailment. Footage from the crash site showed the yellow-and-grey-coloured train carriages lying on their sides amid trees as emergency services worked to rescue and treat the injured. Local TV station SWR reports that shortly after the accident, helicopters arrived at the transport the injured to nearby hospitals. In addition, emergency doctors from nearby hospitals were deployed to the scene of the accident. Outdated train infrastructure to blame? AFP reports that German transport faces regular criticism from passengers for its outdated infrastructure that causes frequent train delays and technical problems. The German government has pledged several hundred billion worth of investment over the next few years for the modernisation of the train infrastructure.

<p>While police are yet to release a statement on the number of injured, local German media reports suggest that as many as 50 people were injured in the accident.</p>

Three killed, dozens injured as passenger train derails in Germany

<p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">The city administration in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/germany-afd-organises-march-in-magdeburg-site-of-deadly-christmas-market-attack-786617">Magdeburg</a>, Germany, has reported receiving &euro;615,227.91 ($<span>641,313</span>) in donations for the victims and families affected by the tragic Christmas market attack. The funds, contributed by over 5,600 donors, aim to </span><span data-preserver-spaces="true">provide support to</span><span data-preserver-spaces="true"> those impacted by the incident.</span></p>
<p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-endorses-german-far-right-afd-in-op-ed-opinion-editor-resigns-in-protest-8574191">Elon Musk endorses German far right AfD in op-ed; opinion editor resigns in protest</a></span></strong></p>
<p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Magdeburg Mayor Simone Borris said, &ldquo;The willingness of the population to donate is impressive and another sign of the great solidarity, the broad support and the sense of community that we are currently feeling in many places in Magdeburg.&rdquo;</span></p>
<p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">The mayor also extended her sympathies to those who suffered as a result of the attack. &ldquo;My thoughts are also with the five fatalities, the bereaved and the many injured, as well as the countless relief and emergency services,&rdquo; she said. </span></p>
<p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Borris added, &ldquo;All donations prove that our city is sticking together. </span><span data-preserver-spaces="true">This</span><span data-preserver-spaces="true"> gives us strength and confidence for the future.&rdquo;</span></p>
<h2><strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true">What happened during the Christmas market attack?</span></strong></h2>
<p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">The event </span><span data-preserver-spaces="true">took place</span><span data-preserver-spaces="true"> on 20 December at around 7:00 pm local time, when a black BMW ploughed through the bustling Christmas market in Magdeburg, the capital of Saxony-Anhalt, located approximately 150 kilometres west of Berlin.</span></p>
<p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-not-satisfied-with-us-president-elect-trumps-nato-freeze-and-peacekeeper-plan-for-ukraine-report-8576040">Russia 'not satisfied' with Donald Trump's Ukraine peace plan:&nbsp;Report</a></span></strong></p>
<p><span data-preserver-spaces="true"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/cricket/jasprit-bumrah-test-wickets-against-each-team-england-australia-nz-sa-bangladesh-sl-wi-8576186"></a></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true">The car travelled over 400 metres through the market, leaving five people, including a 9-year-old child, killed, and as many as 235 others injured.&nbsp;</span></p>
<h2><strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true">The aftermath</span></strong></h2>
<p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">The suspect, a 50-year-old doctor </span><span data-preserver-spaces="true">originally</span><span data-preserver-spaces="true"> from Saudi Arabia, was arrested shortly after the incident. Identified as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-christmas-market-attack-suspect-charged-with-murder-as-police-probe-early-warnings-786015">Taleb al-Abdulmohsen</a>, he had moved to Germany in 2006 and applied for asylum 10 years later.</span></p>
<p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Armed police detained al-Abdulmohsen after a confrontation near the damaged BMW. Officers repeatedly ordered him to lie on the ground during the arrest.</span></p>
<p><em><span data-preserver-spaces="true">(With inputs from agencies)</span></em></p>

World Magdeburg Mayor Simone Borris said, “The willingness of the population to donate is impressive and another sign of the great solidarity, the broad support and the sense of community that we are currently feeling in many places in Magdeburg.”

The city administration in Magdeburg, Germany, has reported receiving €615,227.91 ($641,313) in donations for the victims and families affected by the tragic Christmas market attack. The funds, contributed by over 5,600 donors, aim to provide support to those impacted by the incident. Also read: Elon Musk endorses German far right AfD in op-ed; opinion editor resigns in protest Magdeburg Mayor Simone Borris said, “The willingness of the population to donate is impressive and another sign of the great solidarity, the broad support and the sense of community that we are currently feeling in many places in Magdeburg.” The mayor also extended her sympathies to those who suffered as a result of the attack. “My thoughts are also with the five fatalities, the bereaved and the many injured, as well as the countless relief and emergency services,” she said. Borris added, “All donations prove that our city is sticking together. This gives us strength and confidence for the future.” What happened during the Christmas market attack? The event took place on 20 December at around 7:00 pm local time, when a black BMW ploughed through the bustling Christmas market in Magdeburg, the capital of Saxony-Anhalt, located approximately 150 kilometres west of Berlin. Also read: Russia 'not satisfied' with Donald Trump's Ukraine peace plan: Report The car travelled over 400 metres through the market, leaving five people, including a 9-year-old child, killed, and as many as 235 others injured. The aftermath The suspect, a 50-year-old doctor originally from Saudi Arabia, was arrested shortly after the incident. Identified as Taleb al-Abdulmohsen, he had moved to Germany in 2006 and applied for asylum 10 years later. Armed police detained al-Abdulmohsen after a confrontation near the damaged BMW. Officers repeatedly ordered him to lie on the ground during the arrest. (With inputs from agencies)

German Christmas market attack: Magdeburg raises over $600K for victims

<p><span class="region">Berlin, Germany</span>
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<p>German police said on Sunday (December 22) that a man accused of killing at least five people and injuring hundreds more after driving a car into a crowded Christmas market is now facing charges of murder and attempted murder.</p>
<p>The suspect, identified by German media as Taleb al-Abdulmohsen, is a 50-year-old psychiatrist from Saudi Arabia who arrived in Germany in 2006. He was taken into custody late on Saturday after the incident in Magdeburg on Friday night.</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-leaders-condemn-deadly-christmas-market-attack-in-germany-express-solidarity-in-grief-785880" target="_blank">World leaders condemn deadly Christmas market attack in Germany; express 'solidarity in grief'</a></strong></p>
<p>Police have confirmed that the suspect, described as an anti-Islam activist with a history of disputes with state authorities, has been charged with multiple counts of murder and attempted murder. Reports also claim he had previously made online death threats against German citizens.</p>
<h2><strong>Germany probes early warnings about the Christmas market attack suspect</strong></h2>
<p>Germany’s Interior Minister, Nancy Faeser, said that investigators who are probing the incident will also review the actions of authorities in response to earlier warnings about the suspect.</p>
<p>"Germany's Federal Criminal Police (BKA) is supporting the investigations by the authorities in Saxony-Anhalt," Faeser told German national newspaper Bild am Sonntag.</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-warned-germany-about-the-suspect-in-christmas-market-attack-report-785849" target="_blank">Saudi Arabia warned Germany about Christmas market attack suspect: Report</a></strong></p>
<p>She added, "The investigating authorities will clear up all the background. They are also investigating exactly what information has already been provided in the past and how it was followed up."</p>
<p>Germany's Office for Migration and Refugees said on Saturday (December 21) that it had received a tip-off about the suspect last year through social media. This information was reportedly passed on to investigative authorities at the time. "This, just like any of the many other indications, was taken seriously," the migration office stated.</p>
<p>According to German news website Der Spiegel, the Saudi secret service had previously alerted German officials about the suspect on multiple occasions. However, German media reported that a risk assessment conducted by German state and federal police last year determined that the suspect posed "no specific danger."</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Germany’s Interior Minister, Nancy Faeser, said that investigators who are probing the incident will also review the actions of authorities in response to earlier warnings about the suspect.



Berlin, Germany German police said on Sunday (December 22) that a man accused of killing at least five people and injuring hundreds more after driving a car into a crowded Christmas market is now facing charges of murder and attempted murder. The suspect, identified by German media as Taleb al-Abdulmohsen, is a 50-year-old psychiatrist from Saudi Arabia who arrived in Germany in 2006. He was taken into custody late on Saturday after the incident in Magdeburg on Friday night. Also read: World leaders condemn deadly Christmas market attack in Germany; express 'solidarity in grief' Police have confirmed that the suspect, described as an anti-Islam activist with a history of disputes with state authorities, has been charged with multiple counts of murder and attempted murder. Reports also claim he had previously made online death threats against German citizens. Germany probes early warnings about the Christmas market attack suspect Germany’s Interior Minister, Nancy Faeser, said that investigators who are probing the incident will also review the actions of authorities in response to earlier warnings about the suspect. "Germany's Federal Criminal Police (BKA) is supporting the investigations by the authorities in Saxony-Anhalt," Faeser told German national newspaper Bild am Sonntag. Also read: Saudi Arabia warned Germany about Christmas market attack suspect: Report She added, "The investigating authorities will clear up all the background. They are also investigating exactly what information has already been provided in the past and how it was followed up." Germany's Office for Migration and Refugees said on Saturday (December 21) that it had received a tip-off about the suspect last year through social media. This information was reportedly passed on to investigative authorities at the time. "This, just like any of the many other indications, was taken seriously," the migration office stated. According to German news website Der Spiegel, the Saudi secret service had previously alerted German officials about the suspect on multiple occasions. However, German media reported that a risk assessment conducted by German state and federal police last year determined that the suspect posed "no specific danger." (With inputs from agencies)

Germany Christmas market attack: Suspect charged with murder as police probe earlier warnings

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuideUeZlDdSGjH0" /></p>

<p>German police said on Sunday (December 22) that a man accused of killing at least five people and injuring hundreds more after driving a car into a crowded Christmas market is now facing charges of murder and attempted murder.</p>

<p>The suspect, identified by German media as Taleb al-Abdulmohsen, is a 50-year-old psychiatrist from Saudi Arabia who arrived in Germany in 2006. He was taken into custody late on Saturday after the incident in Magdeburg on Friday night.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-leaders-condemn-deadly-christmas-market-attack-in-germany-express-solidarity-in-grief-785880" target="_blank">World leaders condemn deadly Christmas market attack in Germany; express 'solidarity in grief'</a></strong></p>

<p>Police have confirmed that the suspect, described as an anti-Islam activist with a history of disputes with state authorities, has been charged with multiple counts of murder and attempted murder. Reports also claim he had previously made online death threats against German citizens.</p>

<h2><strong>Germany probes early warnings about the Christmas market attack suspect</strong></h2>

<p>Germany’s Interior Minister, Nancy Faeser, said that investigators who are probing the incident will also review the actions of authorities in response to earlier warnings about the suspect.</p>

<p>"Germany's Federal Criminal Police (BKA) is supporting the investigations by the authorities in Saxony-Anhalt," Faeser told German national newspaper Bild am Sonntag.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-warned-germany-about-the-suspect-in-christmas-market-attack-report-785849" target="_blank">Saudi Arabia warned Germany about Christmas market attack suspect: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>She added, "The investigating authorities will clear up all the background. They are also investigating exactly what information has already been provided in the past and how it was followed up."</p>

<p>Germany's Office for Migration and Refugees said on Saturday (December 21) that it had received a tip-off about the suspect last year through social media. This information was reportedly passed on to investigative authorities at the time. "This, just like any of the many other indications, was taken seriously," the migration office stated.</p>

<p>According to German news website Der Spiegel, the Saudi secret service had previously alerted German officials about the suspect on multiple occasions. However, German media reported that a risk assessment conducted by German state and federal police last year determined that the suspect posed "no specific danger."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


German police said on Sunday (December 22) that a man accused of killing at least five people and injuring hundreds more after driving a car into a crowded Christmas market is now facing charges of murder and attempted murder.

German police said on Sunday (December 22) that a man accused of killing at least five people and injuring hundreds more after driving a car into a crowded Christmas market is now facing charges of murder and attempted murder. The suspect, identified by German media as Taleb al-Abdulmohsen, is a 50-year-old psychiatrist from Saudi Arabia who arrived in Germany in 2006. He was taken into custody late on Saturday after the incident in Magdeburg on Friday night. Also read: World leaders condemn deadly Christmas market attack in Germany; express 'solidarity in grief' Police have confirmed that the suspect, described as an anti-Islam activist with a history of disputes with state authorities, has been charged with multiple counts of murder and attempted murder. Reports also claim he had previously made online death threats against German citizens. Germany probes early warnings about the Christmas market attack suspect Germany’s Interior Minister, Nancy Faeser, said that investigators who are probing the incident will also review the actions of authorities in response to earlier warnings about the suspect. "Germany's Federal Criminal Police (BKA) is supporting the investigations by the authorities in Saxony-Anhalt," Faeser told German national newspaper Bild am Sonntag. Also read: Saudi Arabia warned Germany about Christmas market attack suspect: Report She added, "The investigating authorities will clear up all the background. They are also investigating exactly what information has already been provided in the past and how it was followed up." Germany's Office for Migration and Refugees said on Saturday (December 21) that it had received a tip-off about the suspect last year through social media. This information was reportedly passed on to investigative authorities at the time. "This, just like any of the many other indications, was taken seriously," the migration office stated. According to German news website Der Spiegel, the Saudi secret service had previously alerted German officials about the suspect on multiple occasions. However, German media reported that a risk assessment conducted by German state and federal police last year determined that the suspect posed "no specific danger." (With inputs from agencies)

<p>In a major development indicating increased tensions between NATO and Russia, a Russian warship fired signalling ammunition (flare) at a German helicopter in the Baltic Sea. The Bundeswehr helicopter was on a reconnaissance mission in response to increased Russian naval activity in the region. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock reportedly mentioned this episode in the NATO meeting in Brussels but additional details are yet not known to the media.</p>

<p>"Putin is attacking our peace order with hybrid attacks," the minister said, as per German media reports.</p>

<p>Usually, such signalling ammunition is reserved to be used in emergency situations only. Russian authorities have claimed that the shots were fired just to alert the German helicopter and not to intimidate the crew aboard.</p>

<p>The incident comes amidst increased tensions in the Baltic region, showing how it could become a new flashpoint in the tensions between the NATO bloc and Russian forces.</p>

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<p>Just last month, two sets of communication cables got damaged in the Baltic Sea linking Finland and Germany, prompting both nations to point fingers at Russia. German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius declared the incident as an “act of sabotage”, saying “hybrid actors” were behind the attack.</p>

<p>Now, Sweden, Germany and Lithuania have launched investigations into the alleged ‘sabotage’ plot, with special emphasis on the likely role of the Chinese vessel Yi Peng 3.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjI9_XeuZCKAxV8T2wGHUQkPd8QxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-chief-meets-trump-in-florida-to-discuss-global-security-and-russia-north-korea-ties-778592" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-chief-meets-trump-in-florida-to-discuss-global-security-and-russia-north-korea-ties-778592&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjI9_XeuZCKAxV8T2wGHUQkPd8QxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">NATO chief meets Trump in Florida to discuss global security and Russia-North Korea ties</a></strong></p>

<p>Over the past months, NATO nations and officials have accused Moscow of staging hybrid attacks on Western nations since it launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Hybrid warfare typically refers to activities designed to destabilise nations through non-traditional and diverse means, including cyberattacks, infrastructure sabotage and misinformation campaigns. Russian hackers have allegedly targeted critical infrastructure, including energy and government systems, in countries such as Poland, Latvia, and Germany.</p>

<p>In response to recent actions by a Russian warship against a German helicopter, Germany has vowed to expand patrolling operations in the Baltic Sea.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a major development indicating increased tensions between NATO and Russia, a Russian warship fired signalling ammunition (flare) at a German helicopter in the Baltic Sea.

In a major development indicating increased tensions between NATO and Russia, a Russian warship fired signalling ammunition (flare) at a German helicopter in the Baltic Sea. The Bundeswehr helicopter was on a reconnaissance mission in response to increased Russian naval activity in the region. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock reportedly mentioned this episode in the NATO meeting in Brussels but additional details are yet not known to the media. "Putin is attacking our peace order with hybrid attacks," the minister said, as per German media reports. Usually, such signalling ammunition is reserved to be used in emergency situations only. Russian authorities have claimed that the shots were fired just to alert the German helicopter and not to intimidate the crew aboard. The incident comes amidst increased tensions in the Baltic region, showing how it could become a new flashpoint in the tensions between the NATO bloc and Russian forces. Also read: Zelensky says `hot phase of war` with Russia could end in exchange for NATO membership Just last month, two sets of communication cables got damaged in the Baltic Sea linking Finland and Germany, prompting both nations to point fingers at Russia. German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius declared the incident as an “act of sabotage”, saying “hybrid actors” were behind the attack. Now, Sweden, Germany and Lithuania have launched investigations into the alleged ‘sabotage’ plot, with special emphasis on the likely role of the Chinese vessel Yi Peng 3. Also read: NATO chief meets Trump in Florida to discuss global security and Russia-North Korea ties Over the past months, NATO nations and officials have accused Moscow of staging hybrid attacks on Western nations since it launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Hybrid warfare typically refers to activities designed to destabilise nations through non-traditional and diverse means, including cyberattacks, infrastructure sabotage and misinformation campaigns. Russian hackers have allegedly targeted critical infrastructure, including energy and government systems, in countries such as Poland, Latvia, and Germany. In response to recent actions by a Russian warship against a German helicopter, Germany has vowed to expand patrolling operations in the Baltic Sea. (With inputs from agencies)

Major escalation as Russian warship accused of firing flare ammo at German helicopter

<p>German police on Thursday (Sep 5) gunned down an armed man near the Israeli Consulate in Munich, following an exchange of fire. The attacker, carrying a “long gun”, had first opened fire on police officers in the Karolinenplatz area, near downtown Munich at around 9:00 am local time. He was fatally wounded when police officers returned&nbsp;fire.</p>

<p>Israel termed the incident as a “terror attack”, which came on the 52nd anniversary of the attack by Palestinian militants on the Israeli delegation at the 1972 Munich Olympics, which resulted in the death of 11 Israeli athletes.</p>

<p>Israeli President Isaac Herzog took to X and wrote: "I spoke now with President of Germany, my dear friend Frank-Walter Steinmeier.</p>

<p>"Together we expressed our shared condemnation and horror at the terror attack this morning near the Israeli consulate in Munich," he added.</p>

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<p>The gunman has been identified as an 18-year-old Austrian man, said Munich Police Chief Thomas Hampel during a press briefing. It was not clear what motivated the teen to launch the attack.</p>

<p>German police said they had no evidence more people were involved in the attack. Authorities responded to the incident by launching a large operation and deploying a helicopter in the area.</p>

<p>The consulate was closed at the time of the shooting and no Israeli official was hurt, a statement by Israel's foreign ministry said.</p>

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<p>The attacker reportedly targeted the museum and research institute, which focuses on the history of Germany's 1933-45 Nazi regime.</p>

<p>Germany’s Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann lauded the police for stopping the attack. "Due to the intervention of the police, the perpetrator was stopped," he said.</p>

<p>Dr&nbsp;Josef Schuster, the head of the Central Council of Jews in Germany, also lauded the police for quick intervention.</p>

<p>“What we do know takes our breath away. There could have been a catastrophe in Munich today. I thank the police for their quick intervention,” he stressed.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


German police on Thursday (Sep 5) gunned down an armed man near the Israeli Consulate in Munich, following an exchange of fire. The attacker, carrying a “long gun”, had first opened fire on police officers in the Karolinenplatz area, near downtown Munich at around 9:00 am local time.

German police on Thursday (Sep 5) gunned down an armed man near the Israeli Consulate in Munich, following an exchange of fire. The attacker, carrying a “long gun”, had first opened fire on police officers in the Karolinenplatz area, near downtown Munich at around 9:00 am local time. He was fatally wounded when police officers returned fire. Israel termed the incident as a “terror attack”, which came on the 52nd anniversary of the attack by Palestinian militants on the Israeli delegation at the 1972 Munich Olympics, which resulted in the death of 11 Israeli athletes. Israeli President Isaac Herzog took to X and wrote: "I spoke now with President of Germany, my dear friend Frank-Walter Steinmeier. "Together we expressed our shared condemnation and horror at the terror attack this morning near the Israeli consulate in Munich," he added. Also read: Germany deploys first IRIS-T SLM on its soil The gunman has been identified as an 18-year-old Austrian man, said Munich Police Chief Thomas Hampel during a press briefing. It was not clear what motivated the teen to launch the attack. German police said they had no evidence more people were involved in the attack. Authorities responded to the incident by launching a large operation and deploying a helicopter in the area. The consulate was closed at the time of the shooting and no Israeli official was hurt, a statement by Israel's foreign ministry said. Also read: Unions explore all options, including four-day week, amid Volkswagen crisis The attacker reportedly targeted the museum and research institute, which focuses on the history of Germany's 1933-45 Nazi regime. Germany’s Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann lauded the police for stopping the attack. "Due to the intervention of the police, the perpetrator was stopped," he said. Dr Josef Schuster, the head of the Central Council of Jews in Germany, also lauded the police for quick intervention. “What we do know takes our breath away. There could have been a catastrophe in Munich today. I thank the police for their quick intervention,” he stressed. (With inputs from agencies)

Munich shooting: Police gun down man carrying ‘long gun’ near Israeli consulate

<p>Due to the hand sign's stark resemblance to a far-right Turkish gesture, a city in northern Germany has become the first to completely ban its use in classrooms.</p>

<p>Teachers in Germany and other countries have long considered the "silent fox" gesture, which involves posing the hand to resemble an animal with elevated ears (the little and forefinger) and a closed mouth (the middle fingers placed against the thumb), to be a good teaching tool. It signals youngsters to stop chatting and pay attention to their teacher.</p>

<p>The gesture, however, is "in danger of being mistaken" for the same but indistinguishable "wolf salute" used by right-wing extremists, according to Bremen officials.</p>

<p>When Turkish national football player Merih Demiral used the salute to celebrate scoring a goal in Turkey's round of 16 match against Austria earlier this month, it became the centre of a diplomatic and sports controversy.</p>

<p>Interior Minister Nancy Faeser called it "completely unacceptable" that "to use the football championships as a platform for racism" was still allowed in Germany, despite the sign not being outlawed as it is in neighbouring Austria and France.</p>

<p>The European football governing body Uefa suspended Demiral for two matches following the summons of the ambassadors of Germany and Turkey to Berlin and Ankara, respectively.</p>

<p>Protests over his ban sparked calls among Turkish fans to use the symbol even more to show their anger at what Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan called an “unfair and biased” reaction. “Does anybody ask why the German national jersey has an eagle, or the French jersey a rooster?” he questioned reporters before Turkey’s quarter-final match against the Netherlands in Berlin.</p>

<p>Erdoğan said that Demiral had just made the gesture to express his delight and that the ban was politically motivated.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-assassination-attempt-shooter-used-ar-15-rifle-one-of-the-most-popular-and-deadliest-guns-in-us-741008">Donald Trump assassination attempt: Shooter used AR-15 rifle, one of the most popular and deadliest guns in US</a></strong></p>

<p>Germany hosts around 3 million ethnic Turks, making them the largest ethnic minority in the country and the biggest Turkish diaspora worldwide.</p>

<p>Patricia Brandt, a spokesperson for Bremen's education authority, stated that discussions about the silent fox gesture and the possibility of banning it had been ongoing for a long time, but the city felt it had no other option at this point.</p>

<p>“The political meaning of the hand gesture is absolutely incompatible with the values of the city of Bremen,” she said.</p>

<p>But she noted that more teachers now view the gesture as “pedagogically outdated” and find its “regulatory style” to be overly rigid and condescending.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Due to the hand sign's stark resemblance to a far-right Turkish gesture, a city in northern Germany has become the first to completely ban its use in classrooms.

Due to the hand sign's stark resemblance to a far-right Turkish gesture, a city in northern Germany has become the first to completely ban its use in classrooms. Teachers in Germany and other countries have long considered the "silent fox" gesture, which involves posing the hand to resemble an animal with elevated ears (the little and forefinger) and a closed mouth (the middle fingers placed against the thumb), to be a good teaching tool. It signals youngsters to stop chatting and pay attention to their teacher. The gesture, however, is "in danger of being mistaken" for the same but indistinguishable "wolf salute" used by right-wing extremists, according to Bremen officials. When Turkish national football player Merih Demiral used the salute to celebrate scoring a goal in Turkey's round of 16 match against Austria earlier this month, it became the centre of a diplomatic and sports controversy. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser called it "completely unacceptable" that "to use the football championships as a platform for racism" was still allowed in Germany, despite the sign not being outlawed as it is in neighbouring Austria and France. The European football governing body Uefa suspended Demiral for two matches following the summons of the ambassadors of Germany and Turkey to Berlin and Ankara, respectively. Protests over his ban sparked calls among Turkish fans to use the symbol even more to show their anger at what Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan called an “unfair and biased” reaction. “Does anybody ask why the German national jersey has an eagle, or the French jersey a rooster?” he questioned reporters before Turkey’s quarter-final match against the Netherlands in Berlin. Erdoğan said that Demiral had just made the gesture to express his delight and that the ban was politically motivated. Also read: Donald Trump assassination attempt: Shooter used AR-15 rifle, one of the most popular and deadliest guns in US Germany hosts around 3 million ethnic Turks, making them the largest ethnic minority in the country and the biggest Turkish diaspora worldwide. Patricia Brandt, a spokesperson for Bremen's education authority, stated that discussions about the silent fox gesture and the possibility of banning it had been ongoing for a long time, but the city felt it had no other option at this point. “The political meaning of the hand gesture is absolutely incompatible with the values of the city of Bremen,” she said. But she noted that more teachers now view the gesture as “pedagogically outdated” and find its “regulatory style” to be overly rigid and condescending. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany: Bremen bans ‘silent fox’ hand gesture in classrooms over far-right symbolism controversy

<p>Flight operations at Germany's Munich Airport restarted at 6 am local time (0500 GMT) on Sunday (Dec 3), following a temporary suspension due to heavy snowfall. The operating company communicated the resumption on its website. Flights had been halted on Saturday in response to the adverse winter weather conditions affecting southern Germany.</p>

<p>Flights, and trains were cancelled en masse in Germany’s Munich as heavy snowfall battered Bavaria on Sunday (Dec 3). At least 760 flights were cancelled at Munich Airport on Saturday (Dec 2), with all scheduled departures put on hold until at least 6 am Sunday.</p>

<p>Buses, trams and train services were also hit, stranding a huge number of travellers at Munich’s main railway station.</p>

<p>“I’ve been sitting here in this place since one o’clock in the morning,” one passenger was quoted as saying by Germany’s regional Süddeutsche Zeitung, while another said: “We just want to know if there’s still a chance of getting out of here.”</p>

<p>A football match scheduled to be played between Bayern Munich and Union Berlin on Saturday was also postponed with “safety risks and the traffic situation [making] cancellation” unavoidable, according to a statement by Bayern Munich.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Winter storm dumps snow across southern Germany</strong></p>

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<p>Police urged people not to travel in their cars unless it was absolutely necessary, while residents of some parts of southern Bavaria were told not to leave their homes at all.</p>

<p>Bavarian public broadcaster Bayerischer Rundfunk on Saturday reported that the 44 centimetres of snow in Munich was the most snowfall ever recorded in December in the Bavarian state capital since records began in 1933.</p>

<p>Heavy snowfall also downed several trees in Bavaria, leaving “thousands of people” powerless across the state.</p>

<p>Some residents, however, were cheerier about the snowy atmosphere, with parents pulling their children along on sleds.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-heavy-snow-blankets-bavaria-flights-and-trains-cancelled-665555"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;In Pics: Heavy snow blankets Bavaria, flights and trains cancelled</strong></a></p>

<p>"Finally snow again. I think it's great because it's a bit quieter. It's a nicer atmosphere overall," Friedrich Zeller was quoted as saying by Reuters, as he walked through the snowy streets.</p>

<p>While Munich airport remained closed throughout Saturday, other airports in the region, including in the Swiss financial capital Zurich, also announced weather-related delays and cancellations.</p>

<p>In Austria and Switzerland, the new snowfall led officials to raise the alarm about the danger of avalanches.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Flight operations at Germany's Munich Airport restarted at 6 am local time (0500 GMT) on Sunday (Dec 3), following a temporary suspension due to heavy snowfall. The operating company communicated the resumption on its website.

Flight operations at Germany's Munich Airport restarted at 6 am local time (0500 GMT) on Sunday (Dec 3), following a temporary suspension due to heavy snowfall. The operating company communicated the resumption on its website. Flights had been halted on Saturday in response to the adverse winter weather conditions affecting southern Germany. Flights, and trains were cancelled en masse in Germany’s Munich as heavy snowfall battered Bavaria on Sunday (Dec 3). At least 760 flights were cancelled at Munich Airport on Saturday (Dec 2), with all scheduled departures put on hold until at least 6 am Sunday. Buses, trams and train services were also hit, stranding a huge number of travellers at Munich’s main railway station. “I’ve been sitting here in this place since one o’clock in the morning,” one passenger was quoted as saying by Germany’s regional Süddeutsche Zeitung, while another said: “We just want to know if there’s still a chance of getting out of here.” A football match scheduled to be played between Bayern Munich and Union Berlin on Saturday was also postponed with “safety risks and the traffic situation [making] cancellation” unavoidable, according to a statement by Bayern Munich. Watch: Winter storm dumps snow across southern Germany × Police urged people not to travel in their cars unless it was absolutely necessary, while residents of some parts of southern Bavaria were told not to leave their homes at all. Bavarian public broadcaster Bayerischer Rundfunk on Saturday reported that the 44 centimetres of snow in Munich was the most snowfall ever recorded in December in the Bavarian state capital since records began in 1933. Heavy snowfall also downed several trees in Bavaria, leaving “thousands of people” powerless across the state. Some residents, however, were cheerier about the snowy atmosphere, with parents pulling their children along on sleds. Also read: In Pics: Heavy snow blankets Bavaria, flights and trains cancelled "Finally snow again. I think it's great because it's a bit quieter. It's a nicer atmosphere overall," Friedrich Zeller was quoted as saying by Reuters, as he walked through the snowy streets. While Munich airport remained closed throughout Saturday, other airports in the region, including in the Swiss financial capital Zurich, also announced weather-related delays and cancellations. In Austria and Switzerland, the new snowfall led officials to raise the alarm about the danger of avalanches. (With inputs from agencies)

Munich airport flights resume after heavy snowfall caused suspension

<p>This Diwali, the largest Hindu temple in Germany is all set to be opened in the capital city of Berlin. Thanks to years of efforts of 70-year-old Vilwanathan Krishnamurthy, the construction project is now almost complete after starting about 20 years ago.</p>

<p>While the temple structure has been built, it still stands ‘without the gods,’ as Krishnamurthy plans a massive, six-day-long opening celebration in November. "We're waiting for the gods," he was quoted as saying by DW News.</p>

<p>Krishnamurthy came to Berlin almost 50 years ago and always dreamed of setting up a temple there for the community.</p>

<p>As he worked for the electrical company AEG, he founded an association to build the Sri-Ganesha Hindu Temple.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The construction part</strong></h2>

<p>How Vilwanathan Krishnamurthy toiled up a perilous path of 20 years to complete the project is a case study in itself. The journey began in 2004 when the temple association was established. Shortly after, the Berlin district authority allotted him the plot of land on the edge of Hasenheide Park, between the districts of Kreuzberg, Neukölln and Tempelhof.</p>

<p>Due to financial constraints, the construction work that was supposed to commence in 2007 could not start till 2010.</p>

<p>However, financial problems still loomed large. The construction would regularly stop due to four major problems—regulations, approval procedures, deadlines and financing plans.</p>

<p>"We have carried this through with our own donations. There was no support from the Berlin Senate, from the district authority or from the federal government. I can also understand that," Krishnamurthy said.</p>

<h2><strong>How young Indians rose to the occasion?</strong></h2>

<p>The donations went drastically up in recent years, thanks to the influx of young Indian techies in Berlin. The tallest building, meant for Amazon, is currently under construction in Berlin, and that is where the majority of Indian techies will be earning their living.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Heavy rainfall ravages North and Western areas of Germany</strong></p>

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<p>"In the past five years," Krishnamurthy says, "we have had a significant growth in donations. Young people are prepared to give generously."</p>

<p>Some of the young people even made four-figure donations.</p>

<h2><strong>‘Awaiting gods now’</strong></h2>

<p>Krishnamurthy says the gods were still not there yet. Solid stone figures, crafted especially according to 5000-year-old specifications, will be brought here from India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There should be 27 of them in total, he says.</p>

<p>In November, near the time of the festival of lights, he wants it to be finished, and then the six-day Kumbhabhishekham consecration ceremony can begin.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/wild-pigs-in-germany-are-radioactive-a-new-study-explains-why-630945"><strong>Also read: Wild pigs in Germany are radioactive. A new study explains why</strong></a></p>

<p>"We believe in God, that he supports us," he says.</p>

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This Diwali, the largest Hindu temple in Germany is all set to be opened in the capital city of Berlin. Thanks to years of efforts of 70-year-old Vilwanathan Krishnamurthy, the construction project is now almost complete after starting about 20 years ago.

This Diwali, the largest Hindu temple in Germany is all set to be opened in the capital city of Berlin. Thanks to years of efforts of 70-year-old Vilwanathan Krishnamurthy, the construction project is now almost complete after starting about 20 years ago. While the temple structure has been built, it still stands ‘without the gods,’ as Krishnamurthy plans a massive, six-day-long opening celebration in November. "We're waiting for the gods," he was quoted as saying by DW News. Krishnamurthy came to Berlin almost 50 years ago and always dreamed of setting up a temple there for the community. As he worked for the electrical company AEG, he founded an association to build the Sri-Ganesha Hindu Temple. The construction part How Vilwanathan Krishnamurthy toiled up a perilous path of 20 years to complete the project is a case study in itself. The journey began in 2004 when the temple association was established. Shortly after, the Berlin district authority allotted him the plot of land on the edge of Hasenheide Park, between the districts of Kreuzberg, Neukölln and Tempelhof. Due to financial constraints, the construction work that was supposed to commence in 2007 could not start till 2010. However, financial problems still loomed large. The construction would regularly stop due to four major problems—regulations, approval procedures, deadlines and financing plans. "We have carried this through with our own donations. There was no support from the Berlin Senate, from the district authority or from the federal government. I can also understand that," Krishnamurthy said. How young Indians rose to the occasion? The donations went drastically up in recent years, thanks to the influx of young Indian techies in Berlin. The tallest building, meant for Amazon, is currently under construction in Berlin, and that is where the majority of Indian techies will be earning their living. Watch: Heavy rainfall ravages North and Western areas of Germany × "In the past five years," Krishnamurthy says, "we have had a significant growth in donations. Young people are prepared to give generously." Some of the young people even made four-figure donations. ‘Awaiting gods now’ Krishnamurthy says the gods were still not there yet. Solid stone figures, crafted especially according to 5000-year-old specifications, will be brought here from India. There should be 27 of them in total, he says. In November, near the time of the festival of lights, he wants it to be finished, and then the six-day Kumbhabhishekham consecration ceremony can begin. Also read: Wild pigs in Germany are radioactive. A new study explains why "We believe in God, that he supports us," he says. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

After almost a 20-year wait, largest Hindu temple in Berlin is finally ready to 'welcome gods'

A mysterious 'wolf man' was seen roaming around the forests in central Germany's Harz mountains by some hikers, reported Bild. The man, who is said to have lived for five years in the forest, was captured by two hikers on the camera, who as per reports saw him naked, without a piece of cloth on his body, and carrying a wooden spear at the foot of a ruined castle. In the blurry photos, the man is looking either covered in dirt or extremely hairy while he is sitting on the ground and playing with the sand.

Naked and mysterious 'wolf man' seen roaming in Harz mountains of Germany

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After almost a 20-year wait, largest Hindu temple in Berlin is finally ready to 'welcome gods'

Naked and mysterious 'wolf man' seen roaming in Harz mountains of Germany