It's been high election drama in Europe as predicted, The block has taken a sharp right turn and this comes amid the challenging political landscape. Here is a report on five key takeaways from the European Union's parliamentary polls. Watch in for more details!

Germany fractious coalition faces historic defeat at EU polls, can it recover after EU vote?

Can German coalition recover after EU vote? Chancellor Scholz calls on coaliton to 'stick together'

<p>World leaders gathered for the two-day Ukraine peace summit at a Swiss Alpine resort over the weekend slammed Russian President Vladimir Putin and the terms he recently set out to stop the war. Kyiv has sought to use the second day of the major summit to pursue a broad consensus on condemning the Russian invasion and underscoring concerns about the human cost of the ongoing war.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>World leaders slam Putin</strong></h2>

<p>Leaders and representatives from more than 90 countries gathered at the Burgenstock resort in a show of support for Kyiv, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sought to rally support for an international agreement around a proposal to end the war that he could present to Russia.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Ahead of the summit on Friday (Jun 14), <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-slams-wests-hypocrisy-sets-out-conditions-for-peace-talks-with-ukraine-731812">Putin slammed the West</a> and accused it of undermining global strategic stability.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also said that Russia would be ready for ceasefire talks “tomorrow” if Ukrainian troops withdrew from the four regions claimed by Moscow, and Kyiv gave up its plans to join NATO.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“So far, the West has been ignoring our interests. While they forbid Kyiv to negotiate, they hypocritically call on us to start some sort of negotiations. It just looks idiotic,” said the Russian president.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The proposal was swiftly rejected by Kyiv and its allies.</p>

<p>Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called the Russian president’s plan “propaganda” that effectively suggested that Ukraine “must withdraw from Ukraine.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called it “dictatorial peace.”</p>

<p>The United States,&nbsp;represented by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-ukraine-peace-summit-us-vice-prez-harris-announces-over-15-billion-in-aid-for-kyiv-732128">Vice President Kamala Harris</a> – a decision that had riled Kyiv – said that Putin is essentially calling for surrender.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She added, “Let nothing about the end of this war be decided without Ukraine.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, on Saturday, said Putin “made a mistake” by not attending the summit considering half of the United Nations was present.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“And the fact that Putin yesterday came out with this silly peace proposal shows you that he is clearly panicking. So that’s good news,” Rutte told reporters.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Kyiv seeks broad consensus</strong></h2>

<p>Most countries gathered have voiced strong support for Ukraine and demanded peace, while others have criticised Russia’s exclusion from the summit and warned Kyiv that it might need to compromise if it wanted to end the war.</p>

<p>The summit, which did not see participation from China and was called a waste of time by Russia, comes as Ukrainian forces have faced a series of setbacks on the frontline and the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza has diverted the world’s attention from Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A draft of the final summit declaration seen by Reuters refers to the Russian invasion as “war,” a label that Moscow has rejected, and calls for Ukraine’s control over the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and its Azov Sea ports to be restored.</p>

<p>The talks on Sunday (Jun 16), will be focused on pursuing a joint position on the need for nuclear and food security, and the return of prisoners of war and children removed from Ukraine amid the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The draft communique, dated June 13, calls for all illegally deported children sent to Russia and Russian-occupied territory to be returned. It remains to be seen how many countries will back a final joint declaration.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


World leaders gathered for the two-day Ukraine peace summit at a Swiss Alpine resort over the weekend slammed Russian President Vladimir Putin and the terms he recently set out to stop the war.

World leaders gathered for the two-day Ukraine peace summit at a Swiss Alpine resort over the weekend slammed Russian President Vladimir Putin and the terms he recently set out to stop the war. Kyiv has sought to use the second day of the major summit to pursue a broad consensus on condemning the Russian invasion and underscoring concerns about the human cost of the ongoing war. World leaders slam Putin Leaders and representatives from more than 90 countries gathered at the Burgenstock resort in a show of support for Kyiv, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sought to rally support for an international agreement around a proposal to end the war that he could present to Russia. Ahead of the summit on Friday (Jun 14), Putin slammed the West and accused it of undermining global strategic stability. He also said that Russia would be ready for ceasefire talks “tomorrow” if Ukrainian troops withdrew from the four regions claimed by Moscow, and Kyiv gave up its plans to join NATO. “So far, the West has been ignoring our interests. While they forbid Kyiv to negotiate, they hypocritically call on us to start some sort of negotiations. It just looks idiotic,” said the Russian president. The proposal was swiftly rejected by Kyiv and its allies. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called the Russian president’s plan “propaganda” that effectively suggested that Ukraine “must withdraw from Ukraine.” Meanwhile, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called it “dictatorial peace.” The United States, represented by Vice President Kamala Harris – a decision that had riled Kyiv – said that Putin is essentially calling for surrender. She added, “Let nothing about the end of this war be decided without Ukraine.” Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, on Saturday, said Putin “made a mistake” by not attending the summit considering half of the United Nations was present. “And the fact that Putin yesterday came out with this silly peace proposal shows you that he is clearly panicking. So that’s good news,” Rutte told reporters. Kyiv seeks broad consensus Most countries gathered have voiced strong support for Ukraine and demanded peace, while others have criticised Russia’s exclusion from the summit and warned Kyiv that it might need to compromise if it wanted to end the war. The summit, which did not see participation from China and was called a waste of time by Russia, comes as Ukrainian forces have faced a series of setbacks on the frontline and the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza has diverted the world’s attention from Kyiv. A draft of the final summit declaration seen by Reuters refers to the Russian invasion as “war,” a label that Moscow has rejected, and calls for Ukraine’s control over the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and its Azov Sea ports to be restored. The talks on Sunday (Jun 16), will be focused on pursuing a joint position on the need for nuclear and food security, and the return of prisoners of war and children removed from Ukraine amid the war. The draft communique, dated June 13, calls for all illegally deported children sent to Russia and Russian-occupied territory to be returned. It remains to be seen how many countries will back a final joint declaration. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine summit: World leaders slam Putin’s peace terms as Kyiv seeks broad consensus to end war

<p>21In an adorable moment from the Group of Seven, G7 summit, the leaders gathered together on Friday (June 14) to sing a Happy Birthday song for German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.</p>

<p>Ahead of the resumption of meetings on the summit's second day, United States President Joe Biden called on the leaders to sing for Scholz saying it was the Biden family's tradition.</p>

<p>"It's a tradition of the Biden family, you've got to sing Happy Birthday on the birthday."</p>

<p>Leaders including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau broke into song, to Scholz's surprise who could be seen beaming with joy throughout the celebration.</p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/g7-summit-glad-my-first-visit-in-3rd-term-is-to-italy-says-pm-modi-731476">Also read: G7 Summit: 'Glad my first visit in 3rd term is to Italy', says PM Modi</a></p>

<h2><strong>Italy PM Giorgia Meloni prefers Namaste over handshake, greets leaders with folded hands</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, another moment that went viral from the G7 Summit on Thursday (June 13) in Italy's Apulia was when Italian PM Meloni greeted several leaders during the summit with a 'Namaste' gesture.</p>

<p>In the pictures and videos that went viral on social media, Meloni can be seen greeting President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz with folded hands.</p>

<p>Several Indian netizens expressed joy over Meloni accepting and preferring the Indian way of greeting people instead of a handshake.</p>

<p>One of the social media users quipped, "Meloni Namaste karna sikh gayi" (Meloni learnt the Namaste gesture).</p>

<p>The netizens also expressed excitement over Meloni and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting as the cheerful friendliness between the two leaders had sparked a social media frenzy in the past as well.</p>

<p>Some netizens believed that this was "Modi's magic". A user wrote, "Eagerly waiting for Modi and Meloni to come together."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


21In an adorable moment from the Group of Seven, G7 summit, the leaders gathered together on Friday (June 14) to sing a Happy Birthday song for German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.

21In an adorable moment from the Group of Seven, G7 summit, the leaders gathered together on Friday (June 14) to sing a Happy Birthday song for German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Ahead of the resumption of meetings on the summit's second day, United States President Joe Biden called on the leaders to sing for Scholz saying it was the Biden family's tradition. "It's a tradition of the Biden family, you've got to sing Happy Birthday on the birthday." Leaders including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau broke into song, to Scholz's surprise who could be seen beaming with joy throughout the celebration. × Also read: G7 Summit: 'Glad my first visit in 3rd term is to Italy', says PM Modi Italy PM Giorgia Meloni prefers Namaste over handshake, greets leaders with folded hands Meanwhile, another moment that went viral from the G7 Summit on Thursday (June 13) in Italy's Apulia was when Italian PM Meloni greeted several leaders during the summit with a 'Namaste' gesture. In the pictures and videos that went viral on social media, Meloni can be seen greeting President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz with folded hands. Several Indian netizens expressed joy over Meloni accepting and preferring the Indian way of greeting people instead of a handshake. One of the social media users quipped, "Meloni Namaste karna sikh gayi" (Meloni learnt the Namaste gesture). The netizens also expressed excitement over Meloni and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting as the cheerful friendliness between the two leaders had sparked a social media frenzy in the past as well. Some netizens believed that this was "Modi's magic". A user wrote, "Eagerly waiting for Modi and Meloni to come together." (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: G7 leaders sing 'Happy Birthday' to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz

In two years' time a massive hole in the heart of Berlin will become the German capital's biggest Reservoir capturing an increasingly precious resource- water.

Berlin harnesses rain to tackle climate change

EU election results: Far-right makes strong gains; setbacks for Macron in France, Scholz in Germany

<p>The EU’s proposed tariffs on Chinese EVs was condemned by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.</p>

<p>Scholz stressed trade barriers and isolationism are self-defeating as they increase costs for all participants and impoverish them.</p>

<p>China has threatened to retaliate against the EU over its cars, prompting Scholz's fears.</p>

<p>This will have a major impact on Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and BMW which are top luxury brands in Germany.</p>

<p>Trade disputes like this could cost jobs and raise prices in the German car industry, which depends heavily on the Chinese market.</p>

<p>Unfair subsidies were cited by the EU as a reason for imposing tariffs. However, Scholz maintains that fair trade is crucial for the well-being of auto production worldwide.</p>

<p>Germany’s automotive industry has strong links with China.</p>

<p>German auto exports to China alone will be estimated at $28 billion by 2022 only.</p>

<p>There is widespread fear among business leaders that if China retaliated with tariffs, it would jeopardise critical investments, leading to the loss of thousands of jobs in Germany.</p>


The EU’s proposed tariffs on Chinese EVs was condemned by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Scholz stressed trade barriers and isolationism are self-defeating as they increase costs for all participants and impoverish them.

The EU’s proposed tariffs on Chinese EVs was condemned by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Scholz stressed trade barriers and isolationism are self-defeating as they increase costs for all participants and impoverish them. China has threatened to retaliate against the EU over its cars, prompting Scholz's fears. This will have a major impact on Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and BMW which are top luxury brands in Germany. Trade disputes like this could cost jobs and raise prices in the German car industry, which depends heavily on the Chinese market. Unfair subsidies were cited by the EU as a reason for imposing tariffs. However, Scholz maintains that fair trade is crucial for the well-being of auto production worldwide. Germany’s automotive industry has strong links with China. German auto exports to China alone will be estimated at $28 billion by 2022 only. There is widespread fear among business leaders that if China retaliated with tariffs, it would jeopardise critical investments, leading to the loss of thousands of jobs in Germany.

Taxes make everybody poorer, warns German Chancellor Scholz

Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz has spoken out against the European Union's tariffs proposition on Chinese EVs. Scholz emphasized that trade barriers and isolation measures ultimately harm all parties involved, making goods more expensive and everyone poorer.

Germany urges against trade barriers as EU plans EV tariffs

<p>Eleven million years ago, the smallest known great ape that weighed just 10 kgs, lived in its full glory. The tiny great ape is far smaller than any other great ape on record.</p>

<p>The species, called<em> Buronius manfredschmidi</em>, is an ancient hominid. It is part of the ancestral family that gave rise to modern humans, gorillas and chimpanzees.</p>

<p>"This new genus is far smaller than any living or any fossil hominid," Professor Madelaine Böhme, a palaeontologist at the University of Tübingen, who led the research, was quoted as saying by The Guardian.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"That makes it quite unusual."</p>

<h2><strong>Human toddler-sized great ape: What did they look like?</strong></h2>

<p>Researchers found that the newly discovered species coexisted with much larger hominid, called <em>Danuvius guggenmosi.&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Study: Apes like to tease their friends</strong></p>

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<p>Fossil remains of the larger ape had previously been dated to the same period at the same fossil site in the German region of Bavaria. The new miniature ape has partial remains of two teeth and one kneecap. Their shape and size suggest that the smallest apes were adept climbers. The thin enamel and light wear on its teeth point out it ate a diet of soft fruits and leaves. Its small size would have allowed it to live high up in the canopy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The findings are published in the journal Plos One.</p>

<h2><strong>Coexisting with larger Danuvius</strong></h2>

<p>Danuvius, on the other hand,&nbsp;was much taller and sturdier. They are thought to be both plant and meat-eaters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The differences in lifestyle are likely to have allowed the two species to share a habitat without competing for resources much like modern gibbons and orangutans in Borneo and Sumatra.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/king-kong-like-apes-used-to-roam-in-southern-china-before-disappearing-due-to-climate-change-study-678937">A 10-foot-tall ape once roamed Earth but fell victim to climate change: Study</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>The discovery could help scientists understand the diversity of hominids during the late Miocene epoch (about 23.03 to 5.333 million years ago).</p>

<p>"It’s hard to say why there are no small hominids living today," Böhme said. "In evolutionary lineages you normally start small and get bigger, and [once you’re bigger] you don’t normally go back."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Eleven million years ago, the smallest known great ape that weighed just 10 kgs, lived in its full glory. The tiny great ape is far smaller than any other great ape on record.

Eleven million years ago, the smallest known great ape that weighed just 10 kgs, lived in its full glory. The tiny great ape is far smaller than any other great ape on record. The species, called Buronius manfredschmidi, is an ancient hominid. It is part of the ancestral family that gave rise to modern humans, gorillas and chimpanzees. "This new genus is far smaller than any living or any fossil hominid," Professor Madelaine Böhme, a palaeontologist at the University of Tübingen, who led the research, was quoted as saying by The Guardian. "That makes it quite unusual." Human toddler-sized great ape: What did they look like? Researchers found that the newly discovered species coexisted with much larger hominid, called Danuvius guggenmosi. Also watch | Study: Apes like to tease their friends × Fossil remains of the larger ape had previously been dated to the same period at the same fossil site in the German region of Bavaria. The new miniature ape has partial remains of two teeth and one kneecap. Their shape and size suggest that the smallest apes were adept climbers. The thin enamel and light wear on its teeth point out it ate a diet of soft fruits and leaves. Its small size would have allowed it to live high up in the canopy. The findings are published in the journal Plos One. Coexisting with larger Danuvius Danuvius, on the other hand, was much taller and sturdier. They are thought to be both plant and meat-eaters. The differences in lifestyle are likely to have allowed the two species to share a habitat without competing for resources much like modern gibbons and orangutans in Borneo and Sumatra. Also read | A 10-foot-tall ape once roamed Earth but fell victim to climate change: Study What does it mean? The discovery could help scientists understand the diversity of hominids during the late Miocene epoch (about 23.03 to 5.333 million years ago). "It’s hard to say why there are no small hominids living today," Böhme said. "In evolutionary lineages you normally start small and get bigger, and [once you’re bigger] you don’t normally go back." (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists find remains of smallest known great ape in Germany

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<p>People in Germany will be allowed to smoke cannabis before driving under a new law, The Times reported on Friday (June 8). The report said that motorists&nbsp;will not only be able to drive as fast as they like in certain places, but will be able to get behind the wheel, legally, after a few puffs on a joint.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;Bundestag (Germany's federal parliament) had partially legalised the consumption and cultivation of the drug from April 1. And now, the Bundestag&nbsp;backed an amendment to the law that allows road users to consume limited amounts of cannabis.</p>

<h2><strong>A look at the law</strong></h2>

<p>The law has set a limit of 3.5 nanograms of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the active intoxicant in cannabis, per millilitre of blood. Those exceeding this limit while driving would pay a fine of $540 (€500) and would also be banned from driving for a month.</p>

<p>The law also bans drivers&nbsp;from drinking any alcohol if they have taken cannabis and imposes a higher fine of around $1,080&nbsp;for road users caught having consumed both.</p>

<p>The Times report added that novice drivers- those aged under 21&nbsp;or who have held their driving licence for less than two years- are banned from consuming any cannabis at all.</p>

<h2><strong>'A black day for transport safety'</strong></h2>

<p>The opposition&nbsp;CDU called the government's measure a “black day for transport safety" in Germany.</p>

<p>It also dismissed the government's argument&nbsp;that there should be equal treatment of alcohol&nbsp;and cannabis consumers on the roads.</p>

<p>Florian Müller, an MP and traffic policy spokesperson&nbsp;for the CDU, said, "The government’s limit sends a disastrous signal. The comparison with alcohol is particularly dangerous because the effects and the breakdown in the body are completely different."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


People in Germany will be allowed to smoke cannabis before driving under a new law, The Times reported on Friday (June 8). The report said that motorists will not only be able to drive as fast as they like in certain places, but will be able to get behind the wheel, legally, after a few puffs on a joint.

People in Germany will be allowed to smoke cannabis before driving under a new law, The Times reported on Friday (June 8). The report said that motorists will not only be able to drive as fast as they like in certain places, but will be able to get behind the wheel, legally, after a few puffs on a joint. The Bundestag (Germany's federal parliament) had partially legalised the consumption and cultivation of the drug from April 1. And now, the Bundestag backed an amendment to the law that allows road users to consume limited amounts of cannabis. A look at the law The law has set a limit of 3.5 nanograms of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the active intoxicant in cannabis, per millilitre of blood. Those exceeding this limit while driving would pay a fine of $540 (€500) and would also be banned from driving for a month. The law also bans drivers from drinking any alcohol if they have taken cannabis and imposes a higher fine of around $1,080 for road users caught having consumed both. The Times report added that novice drivers- those aged under 21 or who have held their driving licence for less than two years- are banned from consuming any cannabis at all. 'A black day for transport safety' The opposition CDU called the government's measure a “black day for transport safety" in Germany. It also dismissed the government's argument that there should be equal treatment of alcohol and cannabis consumers on the roads. Florian Müller, an MP and traffic policy spokesperson for the CDU, said, "The government’s limit sends a disastrous signal. The comparison with alcohol is particularly dangerous because the effects and the breakdown in the body are completely different." (With inputs from agencies)

People in Germany allowed to smoke cannabis before driving, opposition censures move: Report

The first modification to Germany's wartime protocols in thirty-five years came as NATO and Russian tensions grew. Germany revised its 1989 Framework Directive for Overall Defense, signaling the Federal Government's intention to carry out Defense Minister Boris Pistorius's promise to have the nation "ready for war" by 2029.

Germany ramping up war plan as Russia's Putin threatens nuclear war

Germany's defence ministry believes it will need at least 75,000 additional troops to fulfil its NATO commitments as the alliance adapts to face what it sees as an increasingly hostile Russia.

Germany needs 75,000 more troops as NATO eyes Russia threat

Rescuers battled Monday to evacuate people from floods in southern Germany that have claimed four lives, as Chancellor Olaf Scholz called it a “warning” that climate change was getting worse. Watch in for more details!

Four dead as heavy floods sweep Southern Germany, several missing

German police has shot and wounded an armed man who attacked a right-wing demonstration in Mannheim city. Social media footage shows a bearded man attacking people in the city.

Germany: Six people stabbed in spree; attacker shot by cop, injured

<p><strong>Germany Mannheim stabbing incident</strong>: In yet another sign of growing anti-immigration sentiment in Germany, on Friday (May 31),&nbsp;videos shared on social media showed a man attacking several people with a knife in the southwest German city of Mannheim, over 600 km southwest of capital Berlin. The suspect was subsequently arrested,&nbsp;</p>

<p>A police spokesperson confirmed the incident and said there was no danger to the public after the suspect was arrested by the authorities.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Mannheim stabbing incident: What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>The German police did not immediately provide any information about the severity of the injuries or the identities of those involved. But one of the stabbed individuals was widely reported to be a prominent far-right activist and Islam critic Michael Stürzenberger.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;German tourist killed and two others injured in Paris terror attack near Eiffel Tower</strong></p>

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<p>Videos of the incident showed a man appearing to be Stürzenberger coming under attack by the knife-wielding man in the central Market square in Mannheim at about 11:45 a.m. (local time).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Stürzenberger had been participating in a rally organised by the Citizens' Movement Pax Europa, which describes itself as an "anti-Islamisation" movement.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/66-year-old-indian-origin-grandmother-stabbed-to-death-in-broad-daylight-in-london-721561">66-year-old Indian-origin grandmother stabbed to death in broad daylight in London</a></strong></p>

<p>"One person is said to have attacked several people with a knife and injured them," the Mannheim police said in a statement. "The extent and severity of the injuries are not yet known. A firearm was then used against the attacker. The attacker was also injured as a result."</p>

<p>Rescue and emergency services were deployed to the scene, according to reports.</p>

<p><em>More details will be added soon...</em></p>


Germany Mannheim stabbing incident: In yet another sign of growing anti-immigration sentiment in Germany, on Friday (May 31), videos shared on social media showed a man attacking several people with a knife in the southwest German city of Mannheim, over 600 km southwest of capital Berlin.

Germany Mannheim stabbing incident: In yet another sign of growing anti-immigration sentiment in Germany, on Friday (May 31), videos shared on social media showed a man attacking several people with a knife in the southwest German city of Mannheim, over 600 km southwest of capital Berlin. The suspect was subsequently arrested, A police spokesperson confirmed the incident and said there was no danger to the public after the suspect was arrested by the authorities. Mannheim stabbing incident: What happened? The German police did not immediately provide any information about the severity of the injuries or the identities of those involved. But one of the stabbed individuals was widely reported to be a prominent far-right activist and Islam critic Michael Stürzenberger. Also read | German tourist killed and two others injured in Paris terror attack near Eiffel Tower × Videos of the incident showed a man appearing to be Stürzenberger coming under attack by the knife-wielding man in the central Market square in Mannheim at about 11:45 a.m. (local time). Stürzenberger had been participating in a rally organised by the Citizens' Movement Pax Europa, which describes itself as an "anti-Islamisation" movement. Also read | 66-year-old Indian-origin grandmother stabbed to death in broad daylight in London "One person is said to have attacked several people with a knife and injured them," the Mannheim police said in a statement. "The extent and severity of the injuries are not yet known. A firearm was then used against the attacker. The attacker was also injured as a result." Rescue and emergency services were deployed to the scene, according to reports. More details will be added soon...

Germany knife attack: Anti-Islam activist stabbed in Mannheim city

<p>France and Germany have said that Ukraine should be permitted to use their weaponry against targets inside Russia from which Moscow attacks Ukraine.</p>

<p>While addressing the media, alongside German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Tuesday (May 28), French President Emmanuel Macron outlined that French weapons supplied to Ukraine, including long-range missiles, were permitted to strike targets within Russia.</p>

<p>“Since Ukrainian soil is being attacked from bases in Russia, how can we explain to the Ukrainians that we need to protect these towns and everything we’re seeing around Kharkiv currently,” Macron said.</p>

<p>“We believe that we should allow them to neutralise the military sites from which the missiles are fired and, basically, the military sites from which Ukraine is attacked,” Macron continued.</p>

<p>However, Macron emphasised that "we must not allow them to strike other targets in Russia," including civilian or additional military sites.</p>

<p>Echoing Macron’s comments, Germany’s Scholz said that Ukraine was permitted to defend itself provided it adhered to the conditions set by the countries supplying the weapons - including the United States - and international law.</p>

<p>“Ukraine has every possibility under international law for what it is doing. That has to be said clearly,” Scholz said. “I find it odd when some people disagree that it should not be allowed to defend itself and take measures that are suitable for this.”</p>

<p>Western allies of Ukraine have maintained a long-standing policy that donated weapons should be strictly used within Ukrainian territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The issue is a controversial one, with fears from Western leaders that if their weaponry is used to strike inside Russia, it would escalate the violence and trigger a wider war involving NATO.</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has repetitively asked permission from his allies to expand the usage of the provided weapons to strike inside Russia.</p>

<p>The United States, the largest arms supplier to Ukraine, has previously prohibited Kyiv from firing its weapons inside Russian territory over escalation concerns.</p>

<p>However, in recent remarks that come into view as a hint -the possibility of a policy change, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Wednesday (May 29) that the US would continue to “adapt and adjust” its support for Ukraine.</p>

<p>“Another seal of our support for Ukraine over the last two years has been to adapt as the conditions have changed. Battlefields change. As what Russia does has changed in terms of how it is pursuing its aggression escalation, we’ve adapted and adjusted too. And I am confident we will continue to do that,” he said when asked about the possibility of allowing Ukraine to strike Russian soil.</p>

<p>“"We have neither encouraged nor enabled strikes beyond Ukraine's borders. As I have previously stated, Ukraine must independently determine the most effective strategies for its defense. Our commitment is to ensure that Ukraine possesses the necessary equipment to achieve this objective," Secretary Blinken asserted.</p>

<p>When asked about his remarks about adjusting and adapting, he added, “We’re always listening. We’re always learning to make sure that Ukraine can effectively continue to defend itself.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


France and Germany have said that Ukraine should be permitted to use their weaponry against targets inside Russia from which Moscow attacks Ukraine. While addressing the media, alongside German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Tuesday (May 28), French President Emmanuel Macron outlined that French weapons supplied to Ukraine, including long-range missiles, were permitted to strike targets within Russia.

France and Germany have said that Ukraine should be permitted to use their weaponry against targets inside Russia from which Moscow attacks Ukraine. While addressing the media, alongside German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Tuesday (May 28), French President Emmanuel Macron outlined that French weapons supplied to Ukraine, including long-range missiles, were permitted to strike targets within Russia. “Since Ukrainian soil is being attacked from bases in Russia, how can we explain to the Ukrainians that we need to protect these towns and everything we’re seeing around Kharkiv currently,” Macron said. “We believe that we should allow them to neutralise the military sites from which the missiles are fired and, basically, the military sites from which Ukraine is attacked,” Macron continued. However, Macron emphasised that "we must not allow them to strike other targets in Russia," including civilian or additional military sites. Echoing Macron’s comments, Germany’s Scholz said that Ukraine was permitted to defend itself provided it adhered to the conditions set by the countries supplying the weapons - including the United States - and international law. “Ukraine has every possibility under international law for what it is doing. That has to be said clearly,” Scholz said. “I find it odd when some people disagree that it should not be allowed to defend itself and take measures that are suitable for this.” Western allies of Ukraine have maintained a long-standing policy that donated weapons should be strictly used within Ukrainian territory. The issue is a controversial one, with fears from Western leaders that if their weaponry is used to strike inside Russia, it would escalate the violence and trigger a wider war involving NATO. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has repetitively asked permission from his allies to expand the usage of the provided weapons to strike inside Russia. The United States, the largest arms supplier to Ukraine, has previously prohibited Kyiv from firing its weapons inside Russian territory over escalation concerns. However, in recent remarks that come into view as a hint -the possibility of a policy change, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Wednesday (May 29) that the US would continue to “adapt and adjust” its support for Ukraine. “Another seal of our support for Ukraine over the last two years has been to adapt as the conditions have changed. Battlefields change. As what Russia does has changed in terms of how it is pursuing its aggression escalation, we’ve adapted and adjusted too. And I am confident we will continue to do that,” he said when asked about the possibility of allowing Ukraine to strike Russian soil. “"We have neither encouraged nor enabled strikes beyond Ukraine's borders. As I have previously stated, Ukraine must independently determine the most effective strategies for its defense. Our commitment is to ensure that Ukraine possesses the necessary equipment to achieve this objective," Secretary Blinken asserted. When asked about his remarks about adjusting and adapting, he added, “We’re always listening. We’re always learning to make sure that Ukraine can effectively continue to defend itself.” (With inputs from agencies)

France, Germany back Ukraine's use of western weapons on Russian soil

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French President Emanuel Macron has urged Europe to defend themselves better against enemies and not just depend on the US at a ceremony in the German city of Dresden. Watch in for more details!

France's Macron urges Europe to defend itself instead of depending on US

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<p>Politically motivated crimes in Germany,&nbsp;which have&nbsp;been&nbsp;tracked&nbsp;for more than 20 years, reached their highest-ever level in 2023, the news agency Associated Press reported on Tuesday (May 21)&nbsp;citing&nbsp;the Federal Criminal Police Office. In total, Germany recorded&nbsp;60,028 politically motivated crimes in 2023.</p>

<p>The report said that right-wing politically motivated crimes increased by 23 per cent in 2023 to 28,945 cases, of which 1,270 were violent. Left-wing crimes increased by 11 per cent&nbsp;to 7,777, of which 916 were violent.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-ponders-mandatory-military-service-for-18-year-olds-amid-looming-russia-nuclear-threat-720790">Germany ponders mandatory military service for 18-year-olds amid looming Russia nuclear threat</a></strong></p>

<p>On Tuesday,&nbsp;Federal Criminal Police&nbsp;Office's&nbsp;President&nbsp;Holger Münch said&nbsp;that politically&nbsp;motivated criminality almost doubled within the last decade and continued to rise.&nbsp;"Parts of the population are tending towards radicalization. These tendencies include attempts to delegitimise the state and its monopoly on violence,”&nbsp;Münch added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Our democracy is under pressure'</strong></h2>

<p>On May 4, Matthias Ecke, a candidate from Chancellor&nbsp;Olaf&nbsp;Scholz's&nbsp;centre-left Social&nbsp;Democrats&nbsp;was attacked&nbsp;while campaigning for a seat in the European Parliament.&nbsp;Authorities believe that the four men arrested in connection with the attack&nbsp;were motivated by right-wing beliefs. Ecke suffered severe injuries.</p>

<p>A few days after this attack,&nbsp;a 74-year-old man with a history of mental illness assaulted&nbsp;Berlin's&nbsp;top economic official, who sustained minor injuries.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch | Race to Power | Germany: 'Reichsbuerger' coup plotters go on trial</strong></p>

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<p>Addressing a press conference,&nbsp;German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said that Germany was a strong democracy, but its&nbsp;"democracy was under pressure.&nbsp;"</p>

<h2><strong>Drastic rise in antisemitic crimes</strong></h2>

<p>There has also been a drastic rise in&nbsp;crimes designated as antisemitic to the highest level since tracking began. According to&nbsp;Holger Münch, such crimes doubled last year to&nbsp;5,164. This increase is related to the Israel-Hamas war&nbsp;which&nbsp;started in October last year, the top security official added.</p>

<p>Hate crimes in the&nbsp;country,&nbsp;increased by about 48% last year to 17,000, and crimes against asylum seekers increased by 75 per cent, both&nbsp;Münch and Faeser said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Politically motivated crimes in Germany, which have been tracked for more than 20 years, reached their highest-ever level in 2023, the news agency Associated Press reported on Tuesday (May 21) citing the Federal Criminal Police Office.

Politically motivated crimes in Germany, which have been tracked for more than 20 years, reached their highest-ever level in 2023, the news agency Associated Press reported on Tuesday (May 21) citing the Federal Criminal Police Office. In total, Germany recorded 60,028 politically motivated crimes in 2023. The report said that right-wing politically motivated crimes increased by 23 per cent in 2023 to 28,945 cases, of which 1,270 were violent. Left-wing crimes increased by 11 per cent to 7,777, of which 916 were violent. Also read | Germany ponders mandatory military service for 18-year-olds amid looming Russia nuclear threat On Tuesday, Federal Criminal Police Office's President Holger Münch said that politically motivated criminality almost doubled within the last decade and continued to rise. "Parts of the population are tending towards radicalization. These tendencies include attempts to delegitimise the state and its monopoly on violence,” Münch added. 'Our democracy is under pressure' On May 4, Matthias Ecke, a candidate from Chancellor Olaf Scholz's centre-left Social Democrats was attacked while campaigning for a seat in the European Parliament. Authorities believe that the four men arrested in connection with the attack were motivated by right-wing beliefs. Ecke suffered severe injuries. A few days after this attack, a 74-year-old man with a history of mental illness assaulted Berlin's top economic official, who sustained minor injuries. Also watch | Race to Power | Germany: 'Reichsbuerger' coup plotters go on trial × Addressing a press conference, German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said that Germany was a strong democracy, but its "democracy was under pressure. " Drastic rise in antisemitic crimes There has also been a drastic rise in crimes designated as antisemitic to the highest level since tracking began. According to Holger Münch, such crimes doubled last year to 5,164. This increase is related to the Israel-Hamas war which started in October last year, the top security official added. Hate crimes in the country, increased by about 48% last year to 17,000, and crimes against asylum seekers increased by 75 per cent, both Münch and Faeser said. (With inputs from agencies)

Politically motivated crimes in Germany reached highest-ever level in 2023

A high-profile trial of members of a far right group accused of plotting a coup to overthrow the German government is set to begin in Frankfurt. Watch in for more details!

Germany: 'Reichsbuerger' coup plotters go on trial

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<p>Legendary Real Madrid and German midfielder Toni Kroos has announced he will be retiring from football after next month's European Championship. The 34-year-old midfielder took to his Instagram account to announce his decision which has come as a shock to fans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kroos joined Real Madrid in 2014 from Bayern Munich and went on to have a staggering career that most footballers can only dream of. However, his retirement comes amid reports that Madrid&nbsp;were&nbsp;offering a one-year extension on his current contract.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"July 17th, 2014 - the day of my presentation at Real Madrid, the day that changed my life. My life as a footballer - but especially as a person. It was the start of a new chapter at the biggest club in the world,” Kroos wrote.</p>

<p>"After 10 years, at the end of the season this chapter comes to an end. I will never forget that insolent successful time! I would particularly like to thank everyone&nbsp;that welcomed&nbsp;me with an open heart and trusted me. But especially I would like to thank you, dear Madridistas, for your affection and your love from the first day until the last one."</p>

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<h2><strong>Real Madrid issue statement&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Real Madrid confirmed the decision on its website and wished good luck to the German who had become "part of the history" of the club.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Real Madrid CF announces that Toni Kroos has decided to end his career as a professional football player after Euro 2024."</p>

<p>"Real Madrid wants to express its gratitude and affection to Toni Kroos, a player who is already part of the history of Real Madrid and who is one of the great legends of our club and world football," read the statement.</p>

<p>As a Madrid player, Kroos won 22 titles in his 463 appearances which includes four&nbsp; European Cups, five&nbsp;Club World Cups, four&nbsp;European Super Cups, four&nbsp;LaLiga titles, one Copa del Rey and four Spanish Super Cups.</p>

<p>Club president Florentino Perez said that Real Madrid will always be Kroos' home in the statement.</p>

<p>"Toni Kroos is one of the great players in the history of Real Madrid and&nbsp;that this&nbsp;club is and will always be his home," said Perez.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/real-madrid-stun-bayern-munich-with-late-fightback-to-enter-uefa-champions-league-final-719512"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Real Madrid stun Bayern Munich with late fightback to enter UEFA Champions League final</strong></a></p>

<p>Kroos, who&nbsp;already has five Champions League titles to his name, would be hoping to add a sixth one when he takes the field at Wembley on June 1 against Borussia Dortmund in the final.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite being in the final leg of his career, Kroos has been a pivotal part in Madrid's push for another UCL title. His assist to Vinicius Junior in the semifinal first leg against Bayern Munich was the key moment in the tie that helped the Los Blancos eventually prevail and book a final berth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from Real Madrid, Kroos will be in action for Germany as he came back from retirement to don the national jersey for the continental championship.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Legendary Real Madrid and German midfielder Toni Kroos has announced he will be retiring from football after next month's European Championship. The 34-year-old midfielder took to his Instagram account to announce his decision which has come as a shock to fans.

Legendary Real Madrid and German midfielder Toni Kroos has announced he will be retiring from football after next month's European Championship. The 34-year-old midfielder took to his Instagram account to announce his decision which has come as a shock to fans. Kroos joined Real Madrid in 2014 from Bayern Munich and went on to have a staggering career that most footballers can only dream of. However, his retirement comes amid reports that Madrid were offering a one-year extension on his current contract. "July 17th, 2014 - the day of my presentation at Real Madrid, the day that changed my life. My life as a footballer - but especially as a person. It was the start of a new chapter at the biggest club in the world,” Kroos wrote. "After 10 years, at the end of the season this chapter comes to an end. I will never forget that insolent successful time! I would particularly like to thank everyone that welcomed me with an open heart and trusted me. But especially I would like to thank you, dear Madridistas, for your affection and your love from the first day until the last one." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Toni Kroos (@toni.kr8s) × Real Madrid issue statement Real Madrid confirmed the decision on its website and wished good luck to the German who had become "part of the history" of the club. "Real Madrid CF announces that Toni Kroos has decided to end his career as a professional football player after Euro 2024." "Real Madrid wants to express its gratitude and affection to Toni Kroos, a player who is already part of the history of Real Madrid and who is one of the great legends of our club and world football," read the statement. As a Madrid player, Kroos won 22 titles in his 463 appearances which includes four European Cups, five Club World Cups, four European Super Cups, four LaLiga titles, one Copa del Rey and four Spanish Super Cups. Club president Florentino Perez said that Real Madrid will always be Kroos' home in the statement. "Toni Kroos is one of the great players in the history of Real Madrid and that this club is and will always be his home," said Perez. Also read | Real Madrid stun Bayern Munich with late fightback to enter UEFA Champions League final Kroos, who already has five Champions League titles to his name, would be hoping to add a sixth one when he takes the field at Wembley on June 1 against Borussia Dortmund in the final. Despite being in the final leg of his career, Kroos has been a pivotal part in Madrid's push for another UCL title. His assist to Vinicius Junior in the semifinal first leg against Bayern Munich was the key moment in the tie that helped the Los Blancos eventually prevail and book a final berth. Apart from Real Madrid, Kroos will be in action for Germany as he came back from retirement to don the national jersey for the continental championship. (With inputs from agencies)

Toni Kroos makes SHOCK retirement announcement; Real Madrid star to hang up boots after...

Germany: 9 accused of 'Reichsbuerger' coup plot go on trial

<p>A building fire in Düsseldorf, North Rhine-Westphalia, early on Thursday (May 16) morning resulted in three fatalities and several injuries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the Flingern area, a building with many apartments and a kiosk on the ground floor of Lichtstraße and Grafenberger Allee caught fire at around 2:30 in the morning.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Locals reported hearing a huge blast, according to regional media site RP Online. It's unclear, though, if the explosion happened before or after the fire started. Subsequently, the fire extended to the nearby residential building. In addition, a number of parked automobiles that were in front of the business caught fire.</p>

<p>Approximately 100 firemen responded to the scene during the night. Residents escaped to balconies at the back of the home. The fire department then used ladders to rescue them from the burning and smoke-filled structure. "We carried out a massive rescue operation," stated a fire department spokeswoman told local media.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-meets-military-leaders-in-kharkiv-says-situation-very-difficult-722148">Ukraine's Zelensky meets military leaders in Kharkiv, says situation 'very difficult'</a></strong></p>

<p>16 persons, including two with potentially fatal injuries, were attended to by emergency personnel and sent to a hospital, the spokeswoman said. Emergency services discovered three bodies. According to authorities, the fire was put out during the night.</p>

<p>Investigating the event, police and fire specialists were on the scene on Thursday morning.</p>

<p>A police spokeswoman stated, "The investigation is ongoing."</p>

<p>On Thursday, many roads surrounding the location remained blocked. There is an advisory for drivers to avoid the area completely.</p>

<p>Brehmschule primary school students must also arrange for diversion and take an extended route to school.</p>

<p>The structure was undergoing further safety precautions, according to the fire department, and there was rubble all across the roadway.</p>

<p>Bus and tram service is also disrupted.</p>

<p>There will likely be short-term cancellations and diversions as a result of the restrictions surrounding the fire site, which is preventing many Rheinbahn services from operating on their regular routes.</p>


A building fire in Düsseldorf, North Rhine-Westphalia, early on Thursday (May 16) morning resulted in three fatalities and several injuries. In the Flingern area, a building with many apartments and a kiosk on the ground floor of Lichtstraße and Grafenberger Allee caught fire at around 2:30 in the morning.

A building fire in Düsseldorf, North Rhine-Westphalia, early on Thursday (May 16) morning resulted in three fatalities and several injuries. In the Flingern area, a building with many apartments and a kiosk on the ground floor of Lichtstraße and Grafenberger Allee caught fire at around 2:30 in the morning. Locals reported hearing a huge blast, according to regional media site RP Online. It's unclear, though, if the explosion happened before or after the fire started. Subsequently, the fire extended to the nearby residential building. In addition, a number of parked automobiles that were in front of the business caught fire. Approximately 100 firemen responded to the scene during the night. Residents escaped to balconies at the back of the home. The fire department then used ladders to rescue them from the burning and smoke-filled structure. "We carried out a massive rescue operation," stated a fire department spokeswoman told local media. Also read: Ukraine's Zelensky meets military leaders in Kharkiv, says situation 'very difficult' 16 persons, including two with potentially fatal injuries, were attended to by emergency personnel and sent to a hospital, the spokeswoman said. Emergency services discovered three bodies. According to authorities, the fire was put out during the night. Investigating the event, police and fire specialists were on the scene on Thursday morning. A police spokeswoman stated, "The investigation is ongoing." On Thursday, many roads surrounding the location remained blocked. There is an advisory for drivers to avoid the area completely. Brehmschule primary school students must also arrange for diversion and take an extended route to school. The structure was undergoing further safety precautions, according to the fire department, and there was rubble all across the roadway. Bus and tram service is also disrupted. There will likely be short-term cancellations and diversions as a result of the restrictions surrounding the fire site, which is preventing many Rheinbahn services from operating on their regular routes.

Germany: 3 killed, several injured after fire at a residential building in Düsseldorf

According to a report in 2023, cyber crime by foreign perpetrators increased by 28% in Germany. Watch in for more details!

Germany witnesses 28% surge in Cybercrime of foreign origin in 2023: Report

<p>Germany, as per reports, is considering the reintroduction of conscription for all 18-year-olds amidst escalating tensions with Russia.</p>

<p>According to a report by The Sunday Telegraph, this move is driven by concerns over a potential full-scale NATO conflict with Russia.</p>

<h2><strong>What's the plan?</strong></h2>

<p>The report states that three potential plans are under the final stage of discussion, and Defence Minister Boris Pistorius is expected to announce formal plans next month. Two of these plans reportedly include compulsory one year conscription for all men at the age of 18.</p>

<p>One approach would require both men and women, upon turning 18, to serve, expanding the conscription that previously applied only to men. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-replaces-russias-defence-minister-sergei-shoigu-with-former-deputy-pm-andrei-belousov-720696">Sergey Shoigu sacked as Russian Defence Minister as Putin begins fifth term</a></strong></p>

<p>Including women in mandatory conscription would require a constitutional amendment, yet, as per Daily Mail, military insiders suggest that such a change would "most likely to receive societal approval".</p>

<p>Another strategy focusing&nbsp;solely on 18-year-old men&nbsp;will reportedly&nbsp;include a selection process where individuals would complete an online form and could subsequently be chosen for service.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The third option, as per the report, would forego conscription entirely, instead focusing on "optimising" the existing military framework through intensified, proactive recruitment efforts.</p>

<p>However, during a recent visit to Washington, Pistorius expressed his 'conviction' that Germany "needs a form of military conscription".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-critic-alexei-navalny-awarded-dresden-peace-prize-posthumously-720645">Putin critic Alexei Navalny awarded Dresden Peace Prize&nbsp;posthumously&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>Germany had suspended compulsory military conscription in 2011, a decision which Pistorius has previously described as a "mistake".</p>

<h2><strong>Why compulsory military service?</strong></h2>

<p>These discussions, as per Daily Mail, are set against a backdrop of heightened global tension following Russian President Vladimir Putin's declaration that his nuclear forces are at full readiness.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an unsettling speech, on Thursday (May 9) Putin hailed the valour of Russian troops in Ukraine and accused the "collective West" of "fuelling regional conflicts, inter-ethnic and inter-religious strife and trying to contain sovereign and independent centres of global development". He also issued a warning that the Kremlin intends to avoid global conflict, but was ready to face any threat to Russia's security.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Germany, as per reports, is considering the reintroduction of conscription for all 18-year-olds amidst escalating tensions with Russia. According to a report by The Sunday Telegraph, this move is driven by concerns over a potential full-scale NATO conflict with Russia.

Germany, as per reports, is considering the reintroduction of conscription for all 18-year-olds amidst escalating tensions with Russia. According to a report by The Sunday Telegraph, this move is driven by concerns over a potential full-scale NATO conflict with Russia. What's the plan? The report states that three potential plans are under the final stage of discussion, and Defence Minister Boris Pistorius is expected to announce formal plans next month. Two of these plans reportedly include compulsory one year conscription for all men at the age of 18. One approach would require both men and women, upon turning 18, to serve, expanding the conscription that previously applied only to men. Also read | Sergey Shoigu sacked as Russian Defence Minister as Putin begins fifth term Including women in mandatory conscription would require a constitutional amendment, yet, as per Daily Mail, military insiders suggest that such a change would "most likely to receive societal approval". Another strategy focusing solely on 18-year-old men will reportedly include a selection process where individuals would complete an online form and could subsequently be chosen for service. The third option, as per the report, would forego conscription entirely, instead focusing on "optimising" the existing military framework through intensified, proactive recruitment efforts. However, during a recent visit to Washington, Pistorius expressed his 'conviction' that Germany "needs a form of military conscription". Also read | Putin critic Alexei Navalny awarded Dresden Peace Prize posthumously Germany had suspended compulsory military conscription in 2011, a decision which Pistorius has previously described as a "mistake". Why compulsory military service? These discussions, as per Daily Mail, are set against a backdrop of heightened global tension following Russian President Vladimir Putin's declaration that his nuclear forces are at full readiness. In an unsettling speech, on Thursday (May 9) Putin hailed the valour of Russian troops in Ukraine and accused the "collective West" of "fuelling regional conflicts, inter-ethnic and inter-religious strife and trying to contain sovereign and independent centres of global development". He also issued a warning that the Kremlin intends to avoid global conflict, but was ready to face any threat to Russia's security. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany ponders mandatory military service for 18-year-olds amid looming Russia nuclear threat

<p>Keeping fans and players safe will be a mammoth task for Germany as it hosts Euro 2024 this summer in a tense global climate with major conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.</p>

<p>From hooligans to potential terrorist attacks and even cyberattacks, the European Championship organisers will be looking to ward off a range of threats.</p>

<p>Security forces will be charged with protecting some 2.7 million fans, 24 team base camps spread across the country and ten stadiums where 51 matches will be played between June 14 and July 14.</p>

<p>Designated fan zones are also expected to attract around 12 million visitors.</p>

<p>"From the outset, security has been our top priority," tournament director Philipp Lahm told AFP.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bundesliga-bayer-leverkusen-maintain-season-long-unbeaten-run-with-thumping-win-over-bochum-720724">Bundesliga: Bayer Leverkusen maintain season-long unbeaten run with thumping win over Bochum</a></strong></p>

<p>In an unprecedented move, Germany has invited some 300 security experts from all nations playing in the tournament to take part in a monitoring project at the International Police Cooperation Centre (IPCC) in the western city of Neuss.</p>

<p>Alongside officials from Germany, Europol and European football body UEFA, they will take turns to monitor the situation on the ground, gathering during the tournament in a huge 500-square-metre (5,382-square-foot) conference room equipped with 129 computers and a 40-square-metre screen, AFP saw on a visit to the facility.</p>

<h2>- No leave for police -</h2>

<p>"Each country knows its troublemakers better than any other, and the foreign experts present in Neuss will be able to identify them more quickly," Oliver Strudthoff, director of the IPCC, told AFP.</p>

<p>"The size of the delegations will depend on the number of fans and how potentially dangerous they are. England, for example, will have many more representatives than Switzerland," he said.</p>

<p>At the matches themselves, all hands will be on deck -- police have been forbidden from taking leave during the tournament.</p>

<p>Germany will also introduce security controls on all of its nine borders.</p>

<p>"On trains and in stations, the federal police will be visibly stepping up their presence," said a spokesman for the German interior ministry. The same applies to airports.</p>

<p>French gendarmes will support the German police by taking part in joint rail patrols on routes to and from France and at matches involving the French team.</p>

<p>The British government has said that more than 1,600 English and Welsh supporters who are hit with stadium bans because of previous violent behaviour, will be banned from travelling to Germany during the tournament.</p>

<h3>- Triple perimeters -</h3>

<p>On top of the standard measures, German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser has said the Ukrainian national team will be subject to enhanced security.</p>

<p>Between 800 and 1,300 police will be deployed around the stadiums at each match, depending on the teams playing.</p>

<p>In a bid to prevent anyone from entering a match with weapons or explosives, three security perimeters will be set up around each stadium.</p>

<p>Cars will be checked at the first barrier, while fans will have their bags searched at the second, before scanning their tickets at the third.</p>

<p>The fan zones will also present a security challenge, especially the largest one at Berlin's Brandenburg Gate which is set to welcome tens of thousands of visitors for every match.</p>

<p>These "soft targets" are more vulnerable because "it's easier for perpetrators to infiltrate (them) and take action", said Johannes Saal, a security expert at the University of Lucerne.</p>

<p>The German army will also monitor the sky from the National Air Security Center, located some 70 kilometres (44 miles) from the IPCC.</p>

<p>The use of drones will be closely monitored, with flight restriction zones.</p>

<p>"Major sporting events are always potential targets for terrorist attacks," said Saal, describing the security situation as "very tense" in the context of the war in Gaza and the ever-present threat of Islamist extremism.</p>


Keeping fans and players safe will be a mammoth task for Germany as it hosts Euro 2024 this summer in a tense global climate with major conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

Keeping fans and players safe will be a mammoth task for Germany as it hosts Euro 2024 this summer in a tense global climate with major conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. From hooligans to potential terrorist attacks and even cyberattacks, the European Championship organisers will be looking to ward off a range of threats. Security forces will be charged with protecting some 2.7 million fans, 24 team base camps spread across the country and ten stadiums where 51 matches will be played between June 14 and July 14. Designated fan zones are also expected to attract around 12 million visitors. "From the outset, security has been our top priority," tournament director Philipp Lahm told AFP. ALSO READ: Bundesliga: Bayer Leverkusen maintain season-long unbeaten run with thumping win over Bochum In an unprecedented move, Germany has invited some 300 security experts from all nations playing in the tournament to take part in a monitoring project at the International Police Cooperation Centre (IPCC) in the western city of Neuss. Alongside officials from Germany, Europol and European football body UEFA, they will take turns to monitor the situation on the ground, gathering during the tournament in a huge 500-square-metre (5,382-square-foot) conference room equipped with 129 computers and a 40-square-metre screen, AFP saw on a visit to the facility. - No leave for police - "Each country knows its troublemakers better than any other, and the foreign experts present in Neuss will be able to identify them more quickly," Oliver Strudthoff, director of the IPCC, told AFP. "The size of the delegations will depend on the number of fans and how potentially dangerous they are. England, for example, will have many more representatives than Switzerland," he said. At the matches themselves, all hands will be on deck -- police have been forbidden from taking leave during the tournament. Germany will also introduce security controls on all of its nine borders. "On trains and in stations, the federal police will be visibly stepping up their presence," said a spokesman for the German interior ministry. The same applies to airports. French gendarmes will support the German police by taking part in joint rail patrols on routes to and from France and at matches involving the French team. The British government has said that more than 1,600 English and Welsh supporters who are hit with stadium bans because of previous violent behaviour, will be banned from travelling to Germany during the tournament. - Triple perimeters - On top of the standard measures, German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser has said the Ukrainian national team will be subject to enhanced security. Between 800 and 1,300 police will be deployed around the stadiums at each match, depending on the teams playing. In a bid to prevent anyone from entering a match with weapons or explosives, three security perimeters will be set up around each stadium. Cars will be checked at the first barrier, while fans will have their bags searched at the second, before scanning their tickets at the third. The fan zones will also present a security challenge, especially the largest one at Berlin's Brandenburg Gate which is set to welcome tens of thousands of visitors for every match. These "soft targets" are more vulnerable because "it's easier for perpetrators to infiltrate (them) and take action", said Johannes Saal, a security expert at the University of Lucerne. The German army will also monitor the sky from the National Air Security Center, located some 70 kilometres (44 miles) from the IPCC. The use of drones will be closely monitored, with flight restriction zones. "Major sporting events are always potential targets for terrorist attacks," said Saal, describing the security situation as "very tense" in the context of the war in Gaza and the ever-present threat of Islamist extremism.

Germany ready to combat massive security challenges at Euro 2024, says tournament director Philipp Lahm

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