Six people have been killed following a shooting in Stade, a city in northern Germany near Hamburg.
Police have arrested two individuals, including a suspected gunman, and say there is currently no further threat to the public. Large numbers of emergency responders remain at the scene as investigators work to determine the motive behind the attack.
Authorities have urged residents to avoid the affected area while the investigation continues.

Germany shooting: Police arrest the alleged gunman and a second suspect

A record-shattering "heat dome" has gripped the continent, with nearly 200 million people facing life-threatening temperatures exceeding 35°C. From the UK to Germany and now moving toward the Balkans, this unprecedented late-June heatwave is breaking all-time national records, overwhelming hospital systems, and forcing the shutdown of nuclear reactors.


Europe Heatwave: Record Heat in Germany, France And Italy

Millions of people across Europe are trapped in a suffocating, prolonged heat dome that is smashing century-old temperature records day after day. From Spain to Germany, major urban centers are experiencing unprecedented thermal stress as a combination of high-pressure atmospheric systems and warming trends trap intense heat over the continent.

Europe Heatwave: Why Is Europe Sweltering With Historic Record-Breaking Heat?

Germany's World Cup campaign has suffered a major setback after Ecuador came from behind to claim a dramatic 2-1 victory and secure a place in the knockout stage.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ecuador Knocks Germany Out of the World Cup in New Jersey

A government-appointed expert panel in Germany has submitted 56 recommendations to the family ministry, including a proposal to bar children under 13 from owning and operating their own social media accounts. The report, which also outlines tiered protection standards for teenagers aged 13–18, is intended to combat risks such as cyberbullying, exposure to extremist content, and the mental health impacts of addictive algorithmic feeds.

Germany Social Media Ban: Under-13 Social Media Ban Proposed 

Germany's foreign intelligence service could soon launch cyberattacks against hostile states and foreign hackers rather than remain confined to defensive operations. The move comes as Europe reassesses its security priorities and tries to reduce its dependence on the United States for intelligence and strategic protection.  

Germany Arms Its Spies To Attack Foreign Hackers With Cyber Attacks

#Gravitas Germany's foreign intelligence service could soon launch cyberattacks against hostile states and foreign hackers rather than remain confined to defensive operations. The move comes as Europe reassesses its security priorities and tries to reduce its dependence on the United States for intelligence and strategic protection.  


Germany Empowers Its Spies to Attack Foreign Hackers With Cyber Attacks

The Russia Ukraine war is shifting as Ukraine’s deep drone strikes and Russia’s continued bombardments reshape the battlefield. Britain is testing long-range missiles that could strengthen Ukraine’s strike capability, while Germany explores new missile options to build its own defence capacity.

UK's Big Missile Move | Ukraine Can Hit Deeper Inside Russia | Ukraine War Entering a New Phase

In a major setback for the Alternative for Germany, or AfD party. A top court in Bavaria has allowed German intelligence agencies to continue spying on the party.  


Germany's Top Court Clears Surveillance of AfD Party 

#Gravitas In a major setback for the Alternative for Germany, or AfD party. A top court in Bavaria has allowed German intelligence agencies to continue spying on the party.  


Germany's Top Court Rules State Can Spy on Country’s Right-Wing Party Afd

Europe's quest to build a world-class next-generation fighter jet has hit yet another roadblock. France and Germany's flagship combat aircraft programme has once again become mired in disputes over leadership, technology sharing, industrial control, and national interests. As Airbus and defence giants push new proposals for a sixth-generation fighter, the continent faces an uncomfortable question: why do Europe's ambitious military aviation projects repeatedly struggle to get off the ground? This Gravitas Special examines the history of failed European fighter programmes, the politics behind defence cooperation, and what it means for Europe's future military power.


Germany And France Abandon Joint Military Jet Program 

A traditional horse gallop event in Germany drew nearly 1,500 spectators, showcasing competitive racing, skilled riders, and strong local participation. The event highlighted growing public interest in equestrian sports and cultural racing traditions, with participants competing across multiple heats. Organizers described the turnout as a success, reflecting continued enthusiasm for live sporting events and rural sporting heritage in the region.


Horse Gallop Event Attracts Nearly 1,500 Spectators in Germany 

Germany has reportedly failed to secure a seat on the United Nations Security Council for the first time, marking a significant diplomatic setback for Berlin on the global stage. The outcome has sparked discussions over shifting geopolitical alliances, international voting dynamics, and Germany’s influence within the United Nations system. Watch the latest updates, global reactions, and analysis on the UNSC election results and their wider implications.


Germany Fails to Secure Seat In UNSC for the First Time

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

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

Faced with the rising threat of Russian aggression and unpredictable American security guarantees, Europe is actively pushing to establish a continental nuclear deterrent. Led by France and the UK, and backed by nations like Germany and Poland, the continent is exploring the integration of European nuclear-sharing frameworks and expanded conventional defense capabilities.


Facing Russian Threat, American Retreat, Europe Scrambles to Get Its Own Nuclear Shield

Elbit Systems and German naval contractor Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop, integrate, and commercialize advanced naval defense solutions. This landmark agreement deepens the strategic defense alliance between Israel and Germany, combining TKMS’s platform engineering with Elbit’s advanced sensor and combat technologies. 


Israeli Military Technology Gains Foothold in Germany’s Naval Industry

German Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, recently emphasised that Europe wants to preserve a strong and functioning NATO alliance, despite growing discord with US President Donald Trump over his decision to pull some US troops from Germany. Speaking alongside Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson on May 9, 2026, Merz highlighted that maintaining "unity of purpose" is more critical than troop numbers alone. Donald Trump's latest moves foreshadow what could be the enduring legacy of the US war on Iran.&nbsp;"We are really willing to keep this alliance alive for the future," said Merz at a press conference. "We know that there are some differences. We know that we are seeing challenges, all of us, but our final goal is to bring this conflict to an end and to guarantee that ​Iran is not able to produce nuclear weapons," Merz said. "And this goal is a common goal between ​America and Europe."Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-ukraine-peace-deal-very-long-way-off-1778333332672">Kremlin pours cold water on Trump’s Ukraine optimism says peace ‘a very long way off’</a>The relation between the US and its traditional ally in Europe deteriorated following Germany's and other European nations' refusal to support direct military participation in the Iran war, though they share the goal of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Trump has specifically singled out Germany following Merz's comments that Iran was humiliating the US. Trump responded by ordering 5000 US troops to be withdrawn and cancelling the planned deployment of Tomahawk missiles. Merz said that Germany has a “unity of purpose” with America, and it would serve US interests to have a strong European component of NATO.&nbsp;Merz continues to warn that Russia remains an imminent danger to Europe, necessitating billions in new defence spending from European nations to rebuild their militaries. Merz also expressed his dissatisfaction at Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico, who had decided to joint Russian victory parade, to celebrate the victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.&nbsp;

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Europe remains committed to NATO despite tensions with US President Donald Trump over Iran policy and the withdrawal of American troops from Germany.

German Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, recently emphasised that Europe wants to preserve a strong and functioning NATO alliance, despite growing discord with US President Donald Trump over his decision to pull some US troops from Germany. Speaking alongside Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson on May 9, 2026, Merz highlighted that maintaining "unity of purpose" is more critical than troop numbers alone. Donald Trump's latest moves foreshadow what could be the enduring legacy of the US war on Iran. "We are really willing to keep this alliance alive for the future," said Merz at a press conference. "We know that there are some differences. We know that we are seeing challenges, all of us, but our final goal is to bring this conflict to an end and to guarantee that Iran is not able to produce nuclear weapons," Merz said. "And this goal is a common goal between America and Europe." Also Read: Kremlin pours cold water on Trump’s Ukraine optimism says peace ‘a very long way off’ The relation between the US and its traditional ally in Europe deteriorated following Germany's and other European nations' refusal to support direct military participation in the Iran war, though they share the goal of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Trump has specifically singled out Germany following Merz's comments that Iran was humiliating the US. Trump responded by ordering 5000 US troops to be withdrawn and cancelling the planned deployment of Tomahawk missiles. Merz said that Germany has a “unity of purpose” with America, and it would serve US interests to have a strong European component of NATO. Merz continues to warn that Russia remains an imminent danger to Europe, necessitating billions in new defence spending from European nations to rebuild their militaries. Merz also expressed his dissatisfaction at Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico, who had decided to joint Russian victory parade, to celebrate the victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Europe remains committed to NATO despite tensions with US President Donald Trump over Iran policy and the withdrawal of American troops from Germany.

German Chancellor Merz vows to keep NATO strong amid Trump troop pullout

A car rammed into a crowd in a pedestrianized area of Leipzig, Germany, killing two people and injuring dozens, with over 20 people reported injured and at least three seriously hurt. Police arrested a 33-year-old German male driver, and the incident, described by officials as a "rampage," is currently under investigation.


Germany: Car Rams Into Crowd in Leipzig, Two People Killed And At least Twenty Injured

A car ploughed into a busy shopping crowd in Leipzig, Germany, leaving at least two people dead and several others injured. The incident took place in the city centre along a major shopping street, triggering a large emergency response involving police, ambulances, and rescue teams.

Authorities in Saxony have confirmed that the suspect has been arrested. However, there are conflicting reports regarding the number of fatalities and injuries, with some sources indicating lower casualty figures.

Car Ploughs Into Crowd in Leipzig | Multiple Dead, Several Injured, Suspect Arrested

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Thursday during a visit to the Bundeswehr training base in Munster, Lower Saxony, dressed in military attire, emphasised that Germany’s "compass remains focused" on a strong NATO alliance. He read from a previously prepared script that Germany was ready to exercise military power against Iran, and he also said that “Iran must come to the negotiating table.” This comes as US President Donald Trump threatened to withdraw troops from Germany.“We are working here, and at other key locations in Germany, side-by-side with the United States and our NATO allies,” Merz said, pointing to joint training and cooperation with American forces. "This work is carried out shoulder-to-shoulder, for our mutual benefit and in a deep transatlantic partnership,” he added.In Munster, Merz avoided directly referencing Trump; however, he hinted at the remilitarisation of Germany, emphasising continuity and alignment with Washington. He highlighted that Germany's increased defence spending and modernisation of the Bundeswehr were part of the effort to reinforce European security and the transatlantic alliance.<h2>Germany's remilitarisation</h2>Meanwhile, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius on Wednesday, April 19, revealed a new defence strategy, one with less reliance on the US and more on Europe. The strategy sets out a three-phase expansion of troops and capabilities, with Germany aiming to become Europe’s strongest conventional force. He stressed that the US is shifting its focus towards the Indo-Pacific, so Germany is concentrating on defending the European continent by meeting NATO capability targets and enabling allied operations.&nbsp;The plan lays out broad phases, such as in phase 1, "rapidly maximising" the Bundeswehr's readiness and endurance by 2029, essentially preparing it for any sustained military operation. In phase 2, the expansion of NATO across all domains aligned with its targets and finally, in phase 3, transforming the base into a hub of military industrial cooperation and a hub of technological innovation. The goal is to turn Germany into the largest conventional military power in Europe.&nbsp;Germany has already announced a €100 billion special fund for the Bundeswehr, constitutional reform to loosen the debt brake for defence spending, accelerated procurement reforms, and a renewed military service system to expand troop numbers and reserves. However, there is also a change in the doctrine; the capability is not decided based on the number of tanks or aircraft, but based on the effect that the Bundeswehr can deliver from long range to short range to air and missile defence.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-us-troop-reduction-italy-spain-iran-nato-rift-1777618702771">Trump signals US troop cuts in Italy, Spain amid rift over Iran operations</a><h2>Is Germany threatening military action against Iran?</h2>According to a recent poll by ARD, a consortium of Germany's public-service broadcasters, 58 per cent of bipartisan Germans oppose a war in Iran, while 25 per cent support it. Germany has previously claimed that it will not be drawn into a war with Iran. But following Merz's comments about the US being “humiliated” in Iran, lacking a clear exit strategy, and the quagmire will be similar to that of Afghanistan and Iraq, Trump hit back with a threat of reduction of US troops and abandoning Europe to defend itself alone against Russia. Merz's comments in the Bundeswehr reaffirming the transatlantic alliance come just after Trump's threat. Merz, who is considered a moderate and is more susceptible to the US-Israeli lobby than his counterparts in London and Paris, which is evident in his direct support of Israel's genocidal war in Gaza. So even though it is unlikely for Germany to be dragged into the war, it is not impossible.&nbsp;However, Germany's remilitarisation has been discussed by analysts since 2022, eventhough they remain sceptical about it. On February 27, 2022, just three days after Russia invaded Ukraine, then Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced that this was a Zeitenwende (“turning point”) for Germany. Russia eventhough hysterically laughed off the German armament and said it would take a decade for Germany to become a threat. But it remains wary of the military posture of Berlin, as Merz continues to distance itself from Russian energy.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz reaffirms NATO commitment and signals military readiness as Germany accelerates remilitarisation amid Iran tensions and US troop uncertainty.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Thursday during a visit to the Bundeswehr training base in Munster, Lower Saxony, dressed in military attire, emphasised that Germany’s "compass remains focused" on a strong NATO alliance. He read from a previously prepared script that Germany was ready to exercise military power against Iran, and he also said that “Iran must come to the negotiating table.” This comes as US President Donald Trump threatened to withdraw troops from Germany. “We are working here, and at other key locations in Germany, side-by-side with the United States and our NATO allies,” Merz said, pointing to joint training and cooperation with American forces. "This work is carried out shoulder-to-shoulder, for our mutual benefit and in a deep transatlantic partnership,” he added. In Munster, Merz avoided directly referencing Trump; however, he hinted at the remilitarisation of Germany, emphasising continuity and alignment with Washington. He highlighted that Germany's increased defence spending and modernisation of the Bundeswehr were part of the effort to reinforce European security and the transatlantic alliance. Germany's remilitarisation Meanwhile, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius on Wednesday, April 19, revealed a new defence strategy, one with less reliance on the US and more on Europe. The strategy sets out a three-phase expansion of troops and capabilities, with Germany aiming to become Europe’s strongest conventional force. He stressed that the US is shifting its focus towards the Indo-Pacific, so Germany is concentrating on defending the European continent by meeting NATO capability targets and enabling allied operations. The plan lays out broad phases, such as in phase 1, "rapidly maximising" the Bundeswehr's readiness and endurance by 2029, essentially preparing it for any sustained military operation. In phase 2, the expansion of NATO across all domains aligned with its targets and finally, in phase 3, transforming the base into a hub of military industrial cooperation and a hub of technological innovation. The goal is to turn Germany into the largest conventional military power in Europe. Germany has already announced a €100 billion special fund for the Bundeswehr, constitutional reform to loosen the debt brake for defence spending, accelerated procurement reforms, and a renewed military service system to expand troop numbers and reserves. However, there is also a change in the doctrine; the capability is not decided based on the number of tanks or aircraft, but based on the effect that the Bundeswehr can deliver from long range to short range to air and missile defence. Also Read: Trump signals US troop cuts in Italy, Spain amid rift over Iran operations Is Germany threatening military action against Iran? According to a recent poll by ARD, a consortium of Germany's public-service broadcasters, 58 per cent of bipartisan Germans oppose a war in Iran, while 25 per cent support it. Germany has previously claimed that it will not be drawn into a war with Iran. But following Merz's comments about the US being “humiliated” in Iran, lacking a clear exit strategy, and the quagmire will be similar to that of Afghanistan and Iraq, Trump hit back with a threat of reduction of US troops and abandoning Europe to defend itself alone against Russia. Merz's comments in the Bundeswehr reaffirming the transatlantic alliance come just after Trump's threat. Merz, who is considered a moderate and is more susceptible to the US-Israeli lobby than his counterparts in London and Paris, which is evident in his direct support of Israel's genocidal war in Gaza. So even though it is unlikely for Germany to be dragged into the war, it is not impossible. However, Germany's remilitarisation has been discussed by analysts since 2022, eventhough they remain sceptical about it. On February 27, 2022, just three days after Russia invaded Ukraine, then Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced that this was a Zeitenwende (“turning point”) for Germany. Russia eventhough hysterically laughed off the German armament and said it would take a decade for Germany to become a threat. But it remains wary of the military posture of Berlin, as Merz continues to distance itself from Russian energy.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz reaffirms NATO commitment and signals military readiness as Germany accelerates remilitarisation amid Iran tensions and US troop uncertainty.

Germany's remilitarisation: Friedrich Merz signals Germany’s readiness amid Iran tensions

Donald Trump has escalated tensions with Germany, threatening to reduce US troop presence while launching sharp criticism at Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Trump accused Berlin of failing to support Washington during the Iran conflict and warned that allies unwilling to stand with the US could face consequences. The remarks have reignited debate over NATO burden-sharing, America’s military footprint in Europe, and the future of transatlantic relations.


Trump Threatens to Pull Troops From Germany

Germany’s far-right party is leading national opinion polls with 28% support, marking a significant shift in the country’s political landscape. The surge reflects growing public concerns over issues like immigration, the economy, and security. The development has sparked debate across Europe, with mainstream parties facing increasing pressure ahead of upcoming elections. 


Germany’s Far-Right Party Tops National Polls with 28% Support

Germany's Far-Right Party Leading National Polls with 28% Support 

Germany is witnessing a major political shift as the far-right Alternative for Germany tops national opinion polls for the first time. The surge comes as Friedrich Merz’s CDU struggles to maintain its lead after last year’s victory. With key regional elections approaching, including in Saxony-Anhalt, the rise of AfD signals changing voter sentiment and growing challenges for mainstream parties.


Germany’s Far-Right Party AfD Tops National Polls for the First Time

Russia is set to halt the transit of Kazakhstan’s oil supplies to Germany through the Druzhba Pipeline, raising fresh concerns over Europe’s energy security. The move could disrupt alternative supply arrangements Berlin relied on after reducing dependence on Russian crude.


Russia to Stop Supplying Kazakh Oil to Germany via Druzhba Pipeline

Rescuers and private donors are urgently working to save a 10-12 meter humpback whale, nicknamed "Timmy," stranded in shallow waters near the German Baltic coast (Timmendorfer Strand/Island of Poel). As of April 20, 2026, the 12-tonne mammal showed signs of movement, with rescue boats guiding it toward deeper water, though its condition remains critical. 


Rescue Teams Race To Save Humpback Whale in Germany

Russia has alleged that European powers may be pursuing undisclosed nuclear-related plans amid the ongoing Iran conflict—claims that, if true, could significantly reshape the geopolitical landscape. However, these assertions have not been independently verified.

The allegations come at a time of intense military escalation involving the United States, Iran, and regional actors, with strikes, retaliatory attacks, and growing fears over nuclear security.

Meanwhile, concerns around nuclear facilities have already intensified, with Russia evacuating personnel from Iran’s Bushehr nuclear plant due to safety risks linked to the conflict

Moscow: Germany Can Build A Nuclear Weapon In 30 Days 

Germany has issued a warning about malicious router hacks targeting critical infrastructure systems, urging businesses and citizens to strengthen cybersecurity defenses. Officials caution that compromised home and corporate routers could be exploited to disrupt essential services and sensitive networks.


Germany Warns of Router Hacks Targeting Critical Systems

Drivers in Germany are increasingly crossing the border into Poland to purchase cheaper fuel as energy prices remain elevated across European Union member states. Officials warn that fuel price normalisation is not expected anytime soon, citing continued supply uncertainty and geopolitical tensions affecting global energy markets.


German Drivers Turn to Poland for Cheaper Fuel; EU Warns Price Normalisation Not in Sight

G7 leaders and ministers have held another round of talks led by France, focusing on the worsening global fuel supply crisis triggered by the ongoing Iran conflict. The meeting comes amid rising oil prices and disruptions to energy flows, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz.

The group said it is ready to take “all necessary measures” to stabilise energy markets, including coordinated action with partners and potential use of strategic oil reserves.

Officials also warned against export restrictions on oil and gas, as concerns grow over inflation, supply shortages and wider economic fallout from the conflict.

Energy security remains the central issue, with global markets under pressure from supply disruptions and continued escalation in the Middle East.

US-Iran War: G7 Holds Fresh Paris Talks As Global Fuel Supply Crisis Deepens | WION

Germany is taking a strong stance against pornographic deepfakes, planning to criminalize their creation and distribution. These AI-generated fake videos, often used to harass or defame individuals, pose serious ethical and legal challenges. Authorities aim to protect privacy, uphold consent, and curb the misuse of artificial intelligence for malicious purposes. This video explores the growing threat of deepfakes, Germany’s proposed legislation, and the global efforts to combat digital abuse.

Germany to Criminalize Pornographic Deepfakes | The Fight Against Deepfake Abuse

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