Amid the India-Germany partnership on sustainable development German ambassador to India and Bhutan Dr Philip Ackermann spoke to WION.

India and Germany's green partnership

India's Ministry of External Affairs on Saturday (Mar&nbsp;23)&nbsp;summoned the Deputy Head of Mission of the German Embassy,&nbsp;George Enzweiler,&nbsp;to officially express the government's discontent over Germany's comments regarding the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the Delhi liquor policy scam case. The Ministry of External Affairs called Germany's statements a "blatant interference in India's internal matters."

<h2>Why did the Ministry of External Affairs summon George Enzweiler?</h2>

After the meeting, that happened in the South Block, MEA posted an official statement on social media platform X, stating, "We see such remarks as interfering in our judicial process and undermining the independence of our judiciary."

"India is a vibrant and robust democracy with rule of law. As in all legal cases in the country, and elsewhere in the democratic world, law will take its own course in the instant matter. Biased assumptions made on this account are most unwarranted," the statement read.

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India protests German Foreign Office Spokesperson's comments:<a href="https://t.co/0ItWQCRpyF">https://t.co/0ItWQCRpyF</a> <a href="https://t.co/FZI3fWM51y">pic.twitter.com/FZI3fWM51y</a>
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&nbsp;

The German Foreign Ministry had earlier stated that it&nbsp;expects&nbsp;Kejriwal to receive a fair and impartial trial. A spokesperson of the German Foreign Ministry said, "We have taken note, India is a democratic country. We assume and expect that the standards relating to independence of Judiciary and basic democratic principles will also be applied in this case."

"Like anyone facing accusations, Mr Kejriwal is entitled to a fair and impartial trial, this includes he can make use of all available legal avenues without restrictions. The presumption of innocence is a central element of the rule of law and must apply to him," he added.

<h2>Why was Arvind Kejriwal arrested by the Enforcement Directorate?</h2>

Arvind Kejriwal was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in connection to the alleged Delhi excise policy scam case. The case involves accusations of corruption and money laundering related to the formulation and execution of the Delhi government's excise policy for 2021-22, which was subsequently revoked.&nbsp;

Following his arrest, Kejriwal was remanded in Enforcement Directorate custody until March 28 for further interrogation regarding his alleged involvement in the excise policy scandal. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

India's Ministry of External Affairs on Saturday (Mar 23) summoned the Deputy Head of Mission of the German Embassy, George Enzweiler, to officially express the government's discontent over Germany's comments regarding the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the Delhi liquor policy scam case.

India's Ministry of External Affairs on Saturday (Mar 23) summoned the Deputy Head of Mission of the German Embassy, George Enzweiler, to officially express the government's discontent over Germany's comments regarding the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the Delhi liquor policy scam case. The Ministry of External Affairs called Germany's statements a "blatant interference in India's internal matters." Why did the Ministry of External Affairs summon George Enzweiler? After the meeting, that happened in the South Block, MEA posted an official statement on social media platform X, stating, "We see such remarks as interfering in our judicial process and undermining the independence of our judiciary." "India is a vibrant and robust democracy with rule of law. As in all legal cases in the country, and elsewhere in the democratic world, law will take its own course in the instant matter. Biased assumptions made on this account are most unwarranted," the statement read. India protests German Foreign Office Spokesperson's comments:https://t.co/0ItWQCRpyF pic.twitter.com/FZI3fWM51y — Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) March 23, 2024 × The German Foreign Ministry had earlier stated that it expects Kejriwal to receive a fair and impartial trial. A spokesperson of the German Foreign Ministry said, "We have taken note, India is a democratic country. We assume and expect that the standards relating to independence of Judiciary and basic democratic principles will also be applied in this case." "Like anyone facing accusations, Mr Kejriwal is entitled to a fair and impartial trial, this includes he can make use of all available legal avenues without restrictions. The presumption of innocence is a central element of the rule of law and must apply to him," he added. Why was Arvind Kejriwal arrested by the Enforcement Directorate? Arvind Kejriwal was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in connection to the alleged Delhi excise policy scam case. The case involves accusations of corruption and money laundering related to the formulation and execution of the Delhi government's excise policy for 2021-22, which was subsequently revoked. Following his arrest, Kejriwal was remanded in Enforcement Directorate custody until March 28 for further interrogation regarding his alleged involvement in the excise policy scandal. (With inputs from agencies)

India summons German diplomat to MEA, protests Germany’s comments on Kejriwal’s arrest

Germany's Far-right AfD party is bombarding the country's Supreme constitutional court with multiple cases. The party claims that its rights are being infringed. At least 22 cases filed by the party are pending before the court.

Germany's AfD alleges infringement of rights, files 22 cases in top court

A majority of Germans believe the military has lost the ability to defend the nation. This is according to a survey in which only 10% respondents expressed confidence in the armed forces. Watch the video for more details!

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz vows to provide more aid to Ukraine

Finland once again tops the World Happiness Report. The country is topping the list for the seventh year in a row.

World Happiness Report: Finland remains the world's happiest country for the seventh year in a row

Germany has detained two suspected members of the Islamic State (IS) for allegedly scheming an assault on the Swedish parliament in response to Koran burnings in Sweden, as announced by the federal prosecutor’s office on Tuesday.

In the city of Gera in eastern Germany, two Afghan nationals known as Ibrahim MG and Ramin N were arrested on suspicion of orchestrating the attack, according to a statement from the prosecutor’s office.

Last year, Sweden witnessed a series of Koran burnings that triggered widespread condemnation within the Muslim community and resulted in violent incidents, including the storming and defacement of Sweden’s embassy in Baghdad. These burnings, protected under Sweden’s extensive freedom of speech laws, incited outrage.

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As per German prosecutors, the two suspects had plotted to target police officers and civilians using firearms in the vicinity of the Stockholm parliament. The prosecutor’s office noted that Ibrahim MG and Ramin N extensively researched the location online and made repeated but unsuccessful attempts to acquire weapons.

Both suspects had affiliations with IS Khorasan Province, a faction of the militant Islamist organisation, since 2023, and had gathered donations amounting to around 2,000 euros ($2,170) for the group. These funds were intended to aid IS members detained in northern Syria, according to the statement.

The suspects are scheduled to appear before a German court on Tuesday and Wednesday, where a decision will be made regarding their pre-trial detention.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/let-terrorist-arrested-in-new-delhi-is-ex-pakistan-army-person-police-687520" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/let-terrorist-arrested-in-new-delhi-is-ex-pakistan-army-person-police-687520&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi-jYDux4CFAxWiTGwGHXo5BLsQFnoECAIQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0NU-dMhES1km7Jaypbt72o&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/let-terrorist-arrested-in-new-delhi-is-ex-pakistan-army-person-police-687520" target="_blank">LeT&nbsp;terrorist&nbsp;arrested in New Delhi is ex-armyman: Police</a>

The Swedish Security Service refrained from commenting on the German case, stating ongoing coordination with European counterparts.

(With inputs with agencies)

Germany has detained two suspected members of the Islamic State (IS) for allegedly scheming an assault on the Swedish parliament in response to Koran burnings in Sweden, as announced by the federal prosecutor’s office on Tuesday.

Germany has detained two suspected members of the Islamic State (IS) for allegedly scheming an assault on the Swedish parliament in response to Koran burnings in Sweden, as announced by the federal prosecutor’s office on Tuesday. In the city of Gera in eastern Germany, two Afghan nationals known as Ibrahim MG and Ramin N were arrested on suspicion of orchestrating the attack, according to a statement from the prosecutor’s office. Last year, Sweden witnessed a series of Koran burnings that triggered widespread condemnation within the Muslim community and resulted in violent incidents, including the storming and defacement of Sweden’s embassy in Baghdad. These burnings, protected under Sweden’s extensive freedom of speech laws, incited outrage. Also read: At least 15 killed in 'terrorist' attack on Burkina Faso church As per German prosecutors, the two suspects had plotted to target police officers and civilians using firearms in the vicinity of the Stockholm parliament. The prosecutor’s office noted that Ibrahim MG and Ramin N extensively researched the location online and made repeated but unsuccessful attempts to acquire weapons. Both suspects had affiliations with IS Khorasan Province, a faction of the militant Islamist organisation, since 2023, and had gathered donations amounting to around 2,000 euros ($2,170) for the group. These funds were intended to aid IS members detained in northern Syria, according to the statement. The suspects are scheduled to appear before a German court on Tuesday and Wednesday, where a decision will be made regarding their pre-trial detention. Also read: LeT terrorist arrested in New Delhi is ex-armyman: Police The Swedish Security Service refrained from commenting on the German case, stating ongoing coordination with European counterparts. (With inputs with agencies)

Germany detains 2 suspected Islamic State members for alleged plot to attack Swedish parliament

A German charity NGO has accused the Libyan Coast Guard of interfering during a Rescue Mission in the southern Mediterranean Sea. A video shot by the crew members shows the Coast Guard maneuvering very close to two rescue boats and a wooden boat of migrants. Watch to know more!

German NGO accuses Libyan coast guard of hampering migrant rescue operations

Germany is hosting a massive military exercise which is the largest such for German land forces since the start of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The drills are part of the multinational exercises and the US Army will lead the drills that focus on Readiness and interoperability between NATO and also its key partners. Watch to know more!

NATO holds military drills in Germany, multinational exercise 'Allied Spirit 2024' kicks off

To aid Ukraine, which completed its second anniversary of war with Russia last month, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz&nbsp;revealed plans for a new coalition aimed at bolstering the country's defences. The announcement came during a press conference in Berlin, where Chancellor Scholz stated, "We are creating a new coalition of long-range artillery forces."

Scholz was present alongside French President Emmanuel Macron and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. This move signifies a commitment to more robust military cooperation among the Western allies in supporting Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression.

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Scholz, while highlighting the coalition's efforts to increasing military assistance to Ukraine, stated, "Among other things, we will now purchase even more weapons for Ukraine, on the entire world market."

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Notably, the funding for these acquisitions will come from interest accrued from frozen Russian assets, as per the German PM. This initiative has underscored a unified stance among western allies in providing tangible support to Ukraine's security efforts amidst ongoing tensions with Russia even as the US on March 12 also announced "additional security assistance as an extraordinary measure to address some of Ukraine's most pressing security and defense needs."

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US Department of Defence in a statement said, "This announcement is the Biden Administration's fifty-fifth tranche of equipment to be provided from DoD inventories for Ukraine since August 2021. This Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) package is valued at up to $300 million and includes capabilities to support Ukraine's immediate air defense, artillery, and anti-tank requirements."

This comes as Russian President Vladimir Putin on March 13 cautioned the West, stating that Moscow was technically ready for nuclear war. Putin continued by saying that any deployment of US troops to Ukraine would result in an escalation of tensions.

Earlier, European Union member states also unanimously agreed a 5 billion euros ($5.48bn) allocation for military assistance to Ukraine. This decision provides Kyiv with crucial support amid its challenges in countering Russian&nbsp;invasion.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

To aid Ukraine, which completed its second anniversary of war with Russia last month, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz revealed plans for a new coalition aimed at bolstering the country's defences.

To aid Ukraine, which completed its second anniversary of war with Russia last month, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz revealed plans for a new coalition aimed at bolstering the country's defences. The announcement came during a press conference in Berlin, where Chancellor Scholz stated, "We are creating a new coalition of long-range artillery forces." Scholz was present alongside French President Emmanuel Macron and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. This move signifies a commitment to more robust military cooperation among the Western allies in supporting Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression. Also Read | Brazil escalates fight against dengue fever outbreak with bacteria-infected mosquitoes Scholz, while highlighting the coalition's efforts to increasing military assistance to Ukraine, stated, "Among other things, we will now purchase even more weapons for Ukraine, on the entire world market." Also Read | 'Highly inappropriate': Kishida condemns party's dancers event. Here's why Notably, the funding for these acquisitions will come from interest accrued from frozen Russian assets, as per the German PM. This initiative has underscored a unified stance among western allies in providing tangible support to Ukraine's security efforts amidst ongoing tensions with Russia even as the US on March 12 also announced "additional security assistance as an extraordinary measure to address some of Ukraine's most pressing security and defense needs." Watch | Istanbul Airport's solution to pre-flight anxiety × US Department of Defence in a statement said, "This announcement is the Biden Administration's fifty-fifth tranche of equipment to be provided from DoD inventories for Ukraine since August 2021. This Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) package is valued at up to $300 million and includes capabilities to support Ukraine's immediate air defense, artillery, and anti-tank requirements." This comes as Russian President Vladimir Putin on March 13 cautioned the West, stating that Moscow was technically ready for nuclear war. Putin continued by saying that any deployment of US troops to Ukraine would result in an escalation of tensions. Earlier, European Union member states also unanimously agreed a 5 billion euros ($5.48bn) allocation for military assistance to Ukraine. This decision provides Kyiv with crucial support amid its challenges in countering Russian invasion. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz announces new coalition of long-range artillery forces to aid Ukraine

Germany's military, the Bundeswehr, lacks personnel and equipment, despite a special modernization fund created two years ago, the parliament's commissioner for the armed forces said in a report.

Report: Germany's army shrinking and ageing

The German Army is facing a major problem, its armed Personnel are ageing and is struggling to get new recruits on board. This is according to a 2023 annual report presented to the country's Parliament. The war in Ukraine has compounded the problem as Germany is shipping weapons from its own stock to the war torn country. Watch to know more!

Olaf Scholz's special fund failing to re-equip German army

Germany's military, the Bundeswehr, lacks personnel and equipment, despite a special modernization fund created two years ago, the parliament's commissioner for the armed forces said in a report presented on Tuesday.

Germany facing shortage of personnel, equipment says report

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz defended his refusal to send Taurus long-range cruise missiles to Ukraine. Germany has become the second-biggest supplier of military aid to Ukraine after the United States.

Germany's Olaf Scholz defends refusal to send Ukraine Taurus missiles

Namibian communities whose ancestors were massacred by German colonial forces and had their property seized more than a century ago are calling for fresh talks with berlin to negotiate the return of ancestral land.

Namibia Desert Wars: Communities battle with Germans

Archaeologists in Nuremberg, Germany, have made a significant discovery during excavations preceding the construction of a retirement home. What they've uncovered may be the largest mass burial of plague victims ever found in Europe.

Roughly&nbsp;1,000 skeletons of&nbsp;plague victims&nbsp;have so far been found in mass graves in the centre&nbsp;of the city of Nuremberg, which archaeologists believe may contain a total of more than 1,500 people, according to a press release.&nbsp;

While precise dating is pending, initial assessments have suggested that the eight plague pits were established around the first half of the 17th century. Interestingly, some bones show a green tint, likely due to the site being used to dispose of waste from a nearby copper mill.

"We will secure and archive all human remains that are found in the future construction areas,"&nbsp;Nuremberg Department of Heritage Conservation archaeologist Melanie Langbein and chief anthropologist Florian Melzer, told Science Alert.

"We currently assume that once the work is completed in the spring, this will be the largest emergency cemetery for plague victims excavated in Europe," he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-a-snake-like-amphibian-that-produces-milk-for-its-young-698014">Also read |&nbsp;Scientists discover a snake-like amphibian that produces milk for its young</a>

<h2>Why is this of archaeological significance?</h2>

Archaeologists are of the opinion that this discovery will be the largest emergency cemetery for plague victims excavated in Europe upon completion of the project in the spring.

Bubonic plague, infamous for devastating pandemics like the Black Death and the Justinian plague, recurred frequently throughout history. Local epidemics have&nbsp;persisted for centuries after the Black Death, affecting cities like Nuremberg.

Unlike traditional plague cemeteries such as St. Rochus in Nuremberg, these victims were not buried according to Christian practices, indicating a dire need for rapid burial during outbreaks.

Further analysis, including DNA testing, is required to confirm the presence of the plague bacterium Yersinia Pestis.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/worlds-oldest-known-burial-site-was-not-created-by-humans-but-654809">Also read |&nbsp;World's oldest known burial site was not created by humans but...</a>

Beyond understanding the circumstances of their deaths, excavating and studying these remains will provide valuable insights into the history of Nuremberg.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Archaeologists in Nuremberg, Germany, have made a significant discovery during excavations preceding the construction of a retirement home. What they've uncovered may be the largest mass burial of plague victims ever found in Europe.

Archaeologists in Nuremberg, Germany, have made a significant discovery during excavations preceding the construction of a retirement home. What they've uncovered may be the largest mass burial of plague victims ever found in Europe. Roughly 1,000 skeletons of plague victims have so far been found in mass graves in the centre of the city of Nuremberg, which archaeologists believe may contain a total of more than 1,500 people, according to a press release. While precise dating is pending, initial assessments have suggested that the eight plague pits were established around the first half of the 17th century. Interestingly, some bones show a green tint, likely due to the site being used to dispose of waste from a nearby copper mill. "We will secure and archive all human remains that are found in the future construction areas," Nuremberg Department of Heritage Conservation archaeologist Melanie Langbein and chief anthropologist Florian Melzer, told Science Alert. "We currently assume that once the work is completed in the spring, this will be the largest emergency cemetery for plague victims excavated in Europe," he added. Also read | Scientists discover a snake-like amphibian that produces milk for its young Why is this of archaeological significance? Archaeologists are of the opinion that this discovery will be the largest emergency cemetery for plague victims excavated in Europe upon completion of the project in the spring. Bubonic plague, infamous for devastating pandemics like the Black Death and the Justinian plague, recurred frequently throughout history. Local epidemics have persisted for centuries after the Black Death, affecting cities like Nuremberg. Unlike traditional plague cemeteries such as St. Rochus in Nuremberg, these victims were not buried according to Christian practices, indicating a dire need for rapid burial during outbreaks. Further analysis, including DNA testing, is required to confirm the presence of the plague bacterium Yersinia Pestis. Also read | World's oldest known burial site was not created by humans but... Beyond understanding the circumstances of their deaths, excavating and studying these remains will provide valuable insights into the history of Nuremberg. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists discover giant plague grave with 1,000 skeletons in Germany

German airline Lufthansa's cabin crew union has urged its members to strike on tuesday and wednesday to press their demands for higher pay.

Lufthansa's Union urges cabin crew to strike next week

British foreign minister David Cameron said on Thursday there was "incredible unity" between NATO allies when asked about an intercepted online call between senior German military officials about Ukraine which included details of British operations.

David Cameron visits Germany, praises NATO unity | Comments on Russian interception of German call

UK's David Cameron praises NATO Unity in Germany, discusses Ukraine aid

David Cameron stresses NATO unity in Germany

Millions of German commuters and travellers faced severe disruptions on Thursday as strikes escalated in the transportation sector.<o:p></o:p>

Railway workers and airport staff across the country walked off the job, causing chaos for commuters and compounding the nation's economic challenges amid a looming recession.<o:p></o:p>

Nationwide impact on rail and air travel<o:p></o:p>

Train drivers, led by the German Train Drivers' Union (GDL),&nbsp;initiated a fifth round of strikes as part of a prolonged dispute over working hours and compensation. <o:p></o:p>

Only one in five long-distance trains was&nbsp;operational, according to Deutsche Bahn, resulting in significant disruptions for passengers. <o:p></o:p>

Simultaneously, Lufthansa airline ground staff commenced a two-day strike, leading to the cancellation of 650 out of 1,750 flights at Frankfurt Airport. <o:p></o:p>

The ADV airport association warned that these strikes were damaging Germany's reputation as a centre for business and tourism.<o:p></o:p>

Economic impact and warnings<o:p></o:p>

According to a Reuters report, the strikes come at a critical time for Germany, with the economy contracting by 0.3 per cent in 2023, and the government anticipating a weaker-than-expected recovery. <o:p></o:p>

A one-day nationwide rail strike could cost approximately 100 million euros in economic output, according to Michael Groemling, head of economic affairs at IW Koeln.<o:p></o:p>

Deutsche Bahn accused the GDL of inflexibility, with spokesperson Achim Stauss stating, "The other side doesn't budge a millimeter from its maximum position." <o:p></o:p>

Economy Minister Robert Habeck expressed his loss of sympathy for the strikers, highlighting the need for a solution without radical impact on others.<o:p></o:p>

Lufthansa, facing both ground staff and potential cabin crew strikes, warned of a higher-than-expected operating loss in the first quarter of 2024 due to the ongoing disruptions.<o:p></o:p>

Discontent over pay and working conditions<o:p></o:p>

The strikes stem from separate disputes over pay and working conditions.<o:p></o:p>

GDL demands a reduction in the working week from 38 to 35 hours without a pay cut, a proposal Deutsche Bahn has rejected. <o:p></o:p>

As per the BBC, GDL head Claus Weselsky criticised the management, highlighting a 14 per cent increase in management salaries with millions in bonuses while workers contribute to the company's recovery.<o:p></o:p>

At Lufthansa, the Ver.di union demands a 12.5 per cent pay rise or a minimum of €500 more per month, citing ground staff struggling with minimum wage despite the company's soaring profits. Lufthansa's offer of a 10 per cent pay increase was deemed insufficient by the union.<o:p></o:p>

Future outlook<o:p></o:p>

As the strikes continue, with potential ramifications for the German economy and international business and tourism, negotiations remain stalled, and both sides brace for further disruptions.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

Millions of German commuters and travellers faced severe disruptions on Thursday as strikes escalated in the transportation sector. Railway workers and airport staff across the country walked off the job, causing chaos for commuters and compounding the nation's economic challenges amid a looming recession.

Millions of German commuters and travellers faced severe disruptions on Thursday as strikes escalated in the transportation sector. Railway workers and airport staff across the country walked off the job, causing chaos for commuters and compounding the nation's economic challenges amid a looming recession. Nationwide impact on rail and air travel Train drivers, led by the German Train Drivers' Union (GDL), initiated a fifth round of strikes as part of a prolonged dispute over working hours and compensation. Only one in five long-distance trains was operational, according to Deutsche Bahn, resulting in significant disruptions for passengers. Simultaneously, Lufthansa airline ground staff commenced a two-day strike, leading to the cancellation of 650 out of 1,750 flights at Frankfurt Airport. The ADV airport association warned that these strikes were damaging Germany's reputation as a centre for business and tourism. Economic impact and warnings According to a Reuters report, the strikes come at a critical time for Germany, with the economy contracting by 0.3 per cent in 2023, and the government anticipating a weaker-than-expected recovery. A one-day nationwide rail strike could cost approximately 100 million euros in economic output, according to Michael Groemling, head of economic affairs at IW Koeln. Deutsche Bahn accused the GDL of inflexibility, with spokesperson Achim Stauss stating, "The other side doesn't budge a millimeter from its maximum position." Economy Minister Robert Habeck expressed his loss of sympathy for the strikers, highlighting the need for a solution without radical impact on others. Lufthansa, facing both ground staff and potential cabin crew strikes, warned of a higher-than-expected operating loss in the first quarter of 2024 due to the ongoing disruptions. Discontent over pay and working conditions The strikes stem from separate disputes over pay and working conditions. GDL demands a reduction in the working week from 38 to 35 hours without a pay cut, a proposal Deutsche Bahn has rejected. As per the BBC, GDL head Claus Weselsky criticised the management, highlighting a 14 per cent increase in management salaries with millions in bonuses while workers contribute to the company's recovery. At Lufthansa, the Ver.di union demands a 12.5 per cent pay rise or a minimum of €500 more per month, citing ground staff struggling with minimum wage despite the company's soaring profits. Lufthansa's offer of a 10 per cent pay increase was deemed insufficient by the union. Future outlook As the strikes continue, with potential ramifications for the German economy and international business and tourism, negotiations remain stalled, and both sides brace for further disruptions. (With inputs from Reuters)

Strikes paralyse Germany's transport sector: Railways and airports in chaos

David Cameron stresses UK-German unity when asked about leaked call and Russian interception

The UK the United Kingdom's foreign minister reinforced Unity within NATO block during his Germany visit, this comes after a recording of a call among German military officials was leaked by Russian media last week. The included discussions about Germany possibly supplying long range taurus missiles to Ukraine. Watch to know more!

UK Foreign Minister David Cameron discusses Ukraine aid with German counterpart

Germany faced strikes on several fronts on Thursday, as train drivers and airport workers walked off the job, causing chaos for millions of travelers and adding to the country's economic woes at a time of looming recession.

Strikes hobble German railways, airports as disputes mount

Millions of travelers across Germany were affected by strikes again on Thursday after two unions called for two-day walkouts over wages and work conditions. Watch in for more details!

Germany: Passengers stranded at airport as Lufthansa staff goes on strike

Arsonists identifying as the Volcano Group caused Tesla's German factory to lose power, potentially leading to damages amounting to almost $1 billion, claimed the Elon Musk company.

The incident in which a single high-voltage power mast near the Tesla factory in Grünheide was set ablaze left over 60,000 residents in Brandenburg and parts of Berlin without electricity. It has raised broader concerns about safeguarding critical infrastructure from vandals and saboteurs.

<h2>Elend&nbsp;'Misery' Musk</h2>

In a statement to the media, the arsonist group referred to Tesla CEO Elon Musk as "Elend" Musk, using a wordplay that means "misery" in German, and claimed that "the complete destruction of the Gigafactory and the lopping off of technofascists like 'Elend' Musk are a step on the path towards liberation from the patriarchy".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/openai-and-elon-musk-in-legal-tangle-ai-mission-derailed-by-clash-over-control-and-profit-697476">OpenAI and Elon Musk in legal tangle: AI mission derailed by clash over control and profit</a>

As per a Fortune report citing the plant's senior director Andre Thierig, due to the disruption production was halted, affecting around 1,000 vehicles per day, which he said could ramp up losses in the "high hundreds of millions" of euros.

Tesla's European factory in Grünheide, its first in Europe, produces the Model Y crossover for most European left-hand drive markets, including Germany.

<h2>Impact on Tesla</h2>

With the factory's ventilation system offline, all 12,500 employees had to be sent home, and repairs by the local grid operator could take several days.

"We currently do not expect to resume production this week," Thierig told the press.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/apple-faces-24-pc-dip-in-china-iphone-sales-amid-huaweis-64-pc-surge-697527">Apple faces 24 pc dip in China iPhone sales amid Huawei's 64 pc surge</a>

The attackers, described by Musk as the "dumbest eco-terrorists on Earth," have managed to evade arrest despite their sporadic attacks on electronic cables controlling telecommunications, trains, and manufacturing plants in remote locations once every year or two.

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These are either the dumbest eco-terrorists on Earth or they’re puppets of those who don’t have good environmental goals. 
 
Stopping production of electric vehicles, rather than fossil fuel vehicles, ist extrem dumm.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1764998660406845620?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The Federal Association for the Protection of Critical Infrastructures (BSKI) vice chairperson Hans-Walter Borries suggested using drones to monitor critical infrastructure, stating that more needs to be done to protect these vulnerable targets.

"We need to protect these objects just like we might with a military installation," he told regional broadcaster Radio Berlin-Brandenburg on Tuesday.

This incident adds to a series of challenges faced by Tesla's European factory, including recent local opposition to its expansion and allegations of water pollution.

As per Fortune, this incident could have a "silver lining". Despite these setbacks, the production stoppage could help reduce unsold inventory in Europe without requiring additional price incentives.

(With inputs from agencies)

Arsonists identifying as the Volcano Group caused Tesla's German factory to lose power, potentially leading to damages amounting to almost $1 billion, claimed the Elon Musk company.

Arsonists identifying as the Volcano Group caused Tesla's German factory to lose power, potentially leading to damages amounting to almost $1 billion, claimed the Elon Musk company. The incident in which a single high-voltage power mast near the Tesla factory in Grünheide was set ablaze left over 60,000 residents in Brandenburg and parts of Berlin without electricity. It has raised broader concerns about safeguarding critical infrastructure from vandals and saboteurs. Elend 'Misery' Musk In a statement to the media, the arsonist group referred to Tesla CEO Elon Musk as "Elend" Musk, using a wordplay that means "misery" in German, and claimed that "the complete destruction of the Gigafactory and the lopping off of technofascists like 'Elend' Musk are a step on the path towards liberation from the patriarchy". Also read | OpenAI and Elon Musk in legal tangle: AI mission derailed by clash over control and profit As per a Fortune report citing the plant's senior director Andre Thierig, due to the disruption production was halted, affecting around 1,000 vehicles per day, which he said could ramp up losses in the "high hundreds of millions" of euros. Tesla's European factory in Grünheide, its first in Europe, produces the Model Y crossover for most European left-hand drive markets, including Germany. Impact on Tesla With the factory's ventilation system offline, all 12,500 employees had to be sent home, and repairs by the local grid operator could take several days. "We currently do not expect to resume production this week," Thierig told the press. Also read | Apple faces 24 pc dip in China iPhone sales amid Huawei's 64 pc surge The attackers, described by Musk as the "dumbest eco-terrorists on Earth," have managed to evade arrest despite their sporadic attacks on electronic cables controlling telecommunications, trains, and manufacturing plants in remote locations once every year or two. These are either the dumbest eco-terrorists on Earth or they’re puppets of those who don’t have good environmental goals. Stopping production of electric vehicles, rather than fossil fuel vehicles, ist extrem dumm. — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 5, 2024 × The Federal Association for the Protection of Critical Infrastructures (BSKI) vice chairperson Hans-Walter Borries suggested using drones to monitor critical infrastructure, stating that more needs to be done to protect these vulnerable targets. "We need to protect these objects just like we might with a military installation," he told regional broadcaster Radio Berlin-Brandenburg on Tuesday. This incident adds to a series of challenges faced by Tesla's European factory, including recent local opposition to its expansion and allegations of water pollution. As per Fortune, this incident could have a "silver lining". Despite these setbacks, the production stoppage could help reduce unsold inventory in Europe without requiring additional price incentives. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk's Tesla suffers $1bn in losses after arsonists cause power outage at German factory

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, on Tuesday (Mar 5) said that one high-level military officer used an unsecured phone line during a call about the ongoing war in Ukraine, which Russia intercepted and leaked to the public. He also dismissed concerns about German communications systems being compromised.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Individual’s operational mistake’</h2>

In an incident which has caused an outcry and massive embarrassment for Germany, Russian media, last week released a 38-minute audio recording of a discussion among four senior German air force officials discussing how and if Ukraine could use Taurus long-range cruise missiles against invading Russian forces.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Germany probes military security leak after Russia wiretap

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“Our communication systems have not been compromised,” Pistorius told reporters in Berlin speaking about the initial results of an ongoing investigation into the wiretap incident.&nbsp;

He added, “The reason the air force call could nonetheless be recorded was because of an individual’s operational mistake.”

Pistorius said that one of the participants had accidentally joined the official meeting from a non-secure line which had likely been intercepted by chance by Russia via its widespread surveillance.&nbsp;

One of the four participants joined the meeting held on the Webex platform from a hotel in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-airshow-indias-advanced-light-helicopter-dhruv-participates-asias-biggest-air-show-692009">Singapore</a>, as the city-state at the time, was hosting an air show which saw the participation of many high-ranking military officials from across the world.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-to-have-sunk-russian-warship-near-crimea-using-sea-drones-696813">Ukraine claims to have sunk Russian warship near Crimea using sea drones</a>

The German defence minister also noted that the use of Webex for calls up to a certain security grade was authorised. The version of Webex is not some off-the-shelf software, said Pistorius, but a specially certified one with servers in the Bundeswehr’s computing centres in Germany.

<h2>About the wiretap</h2>

In the audio recording, posted on Russian social media by a state-backed journalist and head of Russia Today (RT) channel, Margarita Simonyan, German Air Force Chief Ingo Gerhartz was purportedly heard discussing possible delivery of Taurus missiles to Kyiv with three high-ranking Luftwaffe officials. &nbsp;

The German officials also discussed the training of Ukrainian soldiers and potential military targets for the cruise missiles including the Crimea bridge – which links occupied Crimea to the Russian mainland.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, the German defence minister said Russia had leaked the call in a bid to create divisions in Berlin and between the country and its allies.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-demands-explanation-from-germany-after-call-recording-over-ukraine-gets-leaked-696199">Ukraine war: Germany alleges Putin seeking to 'destabilise' country through wiretap</a>

This comes as the leaked discussion about possibly delivering Taurus cruise missiles to Kyiv which Chancellor Olaf Scholz has publicly rejected, fuelled a public debate.&nbsp;

When asked if the leak would affect Gerhartz’s position, Pistorius said if nothing emerged from the probe then “I am not going to sacrifice one of my best officers to (Russian President Vladimir) Putin’s games”.&nbsp;

The German defence minister also said that Berlin would take measures so that such an incident would not happen again.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, on Tuesday (Mar 5) said that one high-level military officer used an unsecured phone line during a call about the ongoing war in Ukraine, which Russia intercepted and leaked to the public.

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, on Tuesday (Mar 5) said that one high-level military officer used an unsecured phone line during a call about the ongoing war in Ukraine, which Russia intercepted and leaked to the public. He also dismissed concerns about German communications systems being compromised. ‘Individual’s operational mistake’ In an incident which has caused an outcry and massive embarrassment for Germany, Russian media, last week released a 38-minute audio recording of a discussion among four senior German air force officials discussing how and if Ukraine could use Taurus long-range cruise missiles against invading Russian forces. WATCH | Germany probes military security leak after Russia wiretap “Our communication systems have not been compromised,” Pistorius told reporters in Berlin speaking about the initial results of an ongoing investigation into the wiretap incident. He added, “The reason the air force call could nonetheless be recorded was because of an individual’s operational mistake.” Pistorius said that one of the participants had accidentally joined the official meeting from a non-secure line which had likely been intercepted by chance by Russia via its widespread surveillance. One of the four participants joined the meeting held on the Webex platform from a hotel in Singapore, as the city-state at the time, was hosting an air show which saw the participation of many high-ranking military officials from across the world. Also Read | Ukraine claims to have sunk Russian warship near Crimea using sea drones The German defence minister also noted that the use of Webex for calls up to a certain security grade was authorised. The version of Webex is not some off-the-shelf software, said Pistorius, but a specially certified one with servers in the Bundeswehr’s computing centres in Germany. About the wiretap In the audio recording, posted on Russian social media by a state-backed journalist and head of Russia Today (RT) channel, Margarita Simonyan, German Air Force Chief Ingo Gerhartz was purportedly heard discussing possible delivery of Taurus missiles to Kyiv with three high-ranking Luftwaffe officials. The German officials also discussed the training of Ukrainian soldiers and potential military targets for the cruise missiles including the Crimea bridge – which links occupied Crimea to the Russian mainland. On Tuesday, the German defence minister said Russia had leaked the call in a bid to create divisions in Berlin and between the country and its allies. Also Read | Ukraine war: Germany alleges Putin seeking to 'destabilise' country through wiretap This comes as the leaked discussion about possibly delivering Taurus cruise missiles to Kyiv which Chancellor Olaf Scholz has publicly rejected, fuelled a public debate. When asked if the leak would affect Gerhartz’s position, Pistorius said if nothing emerged from the probe then “I am not going to sacrifice one of my best officers to (Russian President Vladimir) Putin’s games”. The German defence minister also said that Berlin would take measures so that such an incident would not happen again. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany blames military recording leak on one participant’s error leading to Russian intercept

Russia obtaining the recording of a phone call among senior German military officials discussing the supply of long-range weapons to Ukraine. Watch in for more details!

Germany blames human error after Russia hacks call

Tesla's electric vehicle plant near Berlin came to a standstill and this after a power outage. Well, the fire however, did not reach the electric car makers factory itself but it did burn an electricity pylon.

Tesla German plant halts production after suspected arson attack, Musk calls attack 'extremely dumb'

Fears are rising among intelligence experts that the German military leaks are just the 'tip of the iceberg' as they warn that NATO secrets may have been compromised. Watch in for more details!

German military leaks jolt NATO, fears leaks are just 'tip of the iceberg'

Tesla halted production at its German factory Tuesday after power lines supplying the electric carmaker’s only European plant were set on fire in an act of sabotage claimed by a far-left group. Watch in for more details!

Tesla halts German factory production after attack claimed by far-left group

Germany: Military officer used unsecured line for conference call

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