US automaker Ford Motor said on Monday that it was scaling back production at its plants in Cologne and Saarlouis for the next few weeks due to a semiconductor chip shortage.

World Business Watch: Ford cuts production at two German plants due to chip shortage

Oktoberfest, the world's largest beer festival has been cancelled for second year in a row due to the coronavirus pandemic. The premier of southern German state of Bavaria announced this on Monday. Oktoberfest attracts around 6 million visitors to Munich every year.

Munich residents were mostly sad to see another year without the colourful folk festival but were understanding of the measures.

Bartenders who stand to lose a lot of income from the lack of beer and boozing said they were pinning their hopes on 2022.

Bavarian premier Markus Soeder told journalists that it was necessary to cancel major events such as the Oktoberfest again this year because they required large financial commitments and the risk was too large given uncertainty over when the pandemic may ease up.

"Also, in classic beer halls measures such as social distancing and mask-wearing cannot be enforced," Soeder said.

Germany has vaccinated more than 28 per cent of its population so far. Germans are hoping for restrictions to be lifted with increasing vaccination and falling number of cases.

This year's Oktoberfest was scheduled to take place from Sept. 18 to Oct. 3.

(With inputs from agencies)

Oktoberfest, the world's largest beer festival has been cancelled for second year in a row due to the coronavirus pandemic. The premier of southern German state of Bavaria announced this on Monday.

Oktoberfest, the world's largest beer festival has been cancelled for second year in a row due to the coronavirus pandemic. The premier of southern German state of Bavaria announced this on Monday. Oktoberfest attracts around 6 million visitors to Munich every year. Munich residents were mostly sad to see another year without the colourful folk festival but were understanding of the measures. Bartenders who stand to lose a lot of income from the lack of beer and boozing said they were pinning their hopes on 2022. Bavarian premier Markus Soeder told journalists that it was necessary to cancel major events such as the Oktoberfest again this year because they required large financial commitments and the risk was too large given uncertainty over when the pandemic may ease up. "Also, in classic beer halls measures such as social distancing and mask-wearing cannot be enforced," Soeder said. Germany has vaccinated more than 28 per cent of its population so far. Germans are hoping for restrictions to be lifted with increasing vaccination and falling number of cases. This year's Oktoberfest was scheduled to take place from Sept. 18 to Oct. 3. (With inputs from agencies)

Oktoberfest gets cancelled again due to pandemic

Around 30,000 protesters took to the streets during&nbsp;May&nbsp;Day&nbsp;rallies in Berlin on Saturday, police said, adding nearly 100 officers were injured when some of the demonstrations turned violent.

Police made around 354 arrests during the demonstrations, which they said were for physical assaults and trespassing.

"The violent&nbsp;riots&nbsp;that occurred is something that I very much regret," Berlin's head of police Barbara Slowik told local broadcaster rbb24.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="May Day: Morris Dancers turn blue over racism concerns">May Day: Morris Dancers turn blue over racism concerns</a>

Some of the injuries occurred after some demonstrators threw fireworks, bottles and rocks during protests over social inequality. About 5,600 police were deployed, and some responded with pepper spray.

The demonstrations were the second&nbsp;May&nbsp;Day&nbsp;protests since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. Turnout was much higher than last year, even though social distancing requirements remain in place.

Protests hit other European capitals too, most notably Paris, where police made 46 arrests as garbage bins were set on fire and the windows of a bank branch were smashed.

In Berlin, police used water cannon to extinguish fires as protesters set ablaze waste bins, barricades and cars.

Demonstrations also took place in several other German cities, including Hamburg and Leipzig, despite Europe's largest economy grappling with a third wave of the pandemic.

On Sunday, data from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) for infectious diseases showed that the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Germany increased by 16,290 to 3,416,822.

Around 30,000 protesters took to the streets during May Day rallies in Berlin on Saturday, police said, adding nearly 100 officers were injured when some of the demonstrations turned violent.

Around 30,000 protesters took to the streets during May Day rallies in Berlin on Saturday, police said, adding nearly 100 officers were injured when some of the demonstrations turned violent. Police made around 354 arrests during the demonstrations, which they said were for physical assaults and trespassing. "The violent riots that occurred is something that I very much regret," Berlin's head of police Barbara Slowik told local broadcaster rbb24. Also read- May Day: Morris Dancers turn blue over racism concerns Some of the injuries occurred after some demonstrators threw fireworks, bottles and rocks during protests over social inequality. About 5,600 police were deployed, and some responded with pepper spray. The demonstrations were the second May Day protests since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. Turnout was much higher than last year, even though social distancing requirements remain in place. Protests hit other European capitals too, most notably Paris, where police made 46 arrests as garbage bins were set on fire and the windows of a bank branch were smashed. In Berlin, police used water cannon to extinguish fires as protesters set ablaze waste bins, barricades and cars. Demonstrations also took place in several other German cities, including Hamburg and Leipzig, despite Europe's largest economy grappling with a third wave of the pandemic. On Sunday, data from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) for infectious diseases showed that the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Germany increased by 16,290 to 3,416,822.

Police, protesters clash during May Day rallies in Berlin

German police said on Monday they had shut down 'one of the biggest darknet child pornography platforms in the world' and arrested four of its members in a series of raids in mid-April.

The platform, named as 'Boystown', had existed since 2019, counted over 400,000 members and was "set up for the worldwide exchange of child pornography", federal police said in a statement.&nbsp;

The darknet forum allowed users to communicate with others and share graphic image and video content which included "serious sexual abuse of toddlers", the statement said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Berlin police condemn violence during May Day protests which injured 93 officers">Berlin police condemn violence during May Day protests which injured 93 officers</a>

Three men between the ages of 40 and 64 were arrested in seven raids in Germany, while a further suspect was detained in Paraguay on the request of German authorities.

The suspect in Paraguay's Concepcion region, also a German citizen, is to be extradited back to Germany on the basis of an international arrest warrant issued by a court in Frankfurt.&nbsp;

Three of the men are accused of having managed the platform as administrators, providing technical support and advice to members on how to avoid being discovered by the authorities, while another was "one of the platform's most active users", police said.

Investigators added that the months-long, German-instigated operation had been coordinated by Europol and supported by law enforcement in the Netherlands, Sweden, the United States and Canada.&nbsp;

German police said on Monday they had shut down 'one of the biggest darknet child pornography platforms in the world' and arrested four of its members in a series of raids in mid-April.

German police said on Monday they had shut down 'one of the biggest darknet child pornography platforms in the world' and arrested four of its members in a series of raids in mid-April. The platform, named as 'Boystown', had existed since 2019, counted over 400,000 members and was "set up for the worldwide exchange of child pornography", federal police said in a statement. The darknet forum allowed users to communicate with others and share graphic image and video content which included "serious sexual abuse of toddlers", the statement said. Also read: Berlin police condemn violence during May Day protests which injured 93 officers Three men between the ages of 40 and 64 were arrested in seven raids in Germany, while a further suspect was detained in Paraguay on the request of German authorities. The suspect in Paraguay's Concepcion region, also a German citizen, is to be extradited back to Germany on the basis of an international arrest warrant issued by a court in Frankfurt. Three of the men are accused of having managed the platform as administrators, providing technical support and advice to members on how to avoid being discovered by the authorities, while another was "one of the platform's most active users", police said. Investigators added that the months-long, German-instigated operation had been coordinated by Europol and supported by law enforcement in the Netherlands, Sweden, the United States and Canada.

German police smash darknet child porn network with 400,000 members

Berlin witnessed May Day protests on Saturday which left nearly 100 police officers injured. According to the police, over 300 people were arrested after the rallies showed “unacceptable” violence.

Authorities on Sunday said that over 30,000 people took part in multiple rallies across the German capital on Saturday, a tradition in many European countries on May Day or International Workers’ Day.

The police added that most demonstrations remained largely peaceful but violence was witnessed in the evening as “black bloc” protesters were pulled from the crowd for not following COVID-19 guidelines.

The series of rallies were dubbed as “Revolutionary May Day” and saw attendance from different groups against racism, capitalism and the increasing cost of living in Berlin. Eventually, violence ensued with protesters throwing glass bottles and stones at police officers. In addition, many dustbins and wooden pallets were also set ablaze in the streets.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/on-international-workers-day-french-rally-against-reforms-in-unemployment-benefits-382000">On International Workers' Day, French rally against reforms in unemployment benefits</a>

According to Berlin’s interior ministry, at least 93 police officers were injured in the clashes and 354 people were detained. "Violence during demonstrations is absolutely unacceptable," AFP quoted Berlin police chief Barbara Slowik as saying.

"The situation did degenerate but was quickly brought under control," she added.

Berlin State Interior Minister Andreas Geisel condemned the “blind destruction rage” and the violence which ensued. Berlin’s Mayor Michael Mueller also commented on the violence, saying “violence, hatred and ignorance have no place in our society, not on May 1 or any other day".

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/may-1-history-and-significance-of-international-workers-day-381955">May 1: History and significance of International Workers' Day</a>

On the other hand, the organisers of the “Revolutionary May Day” in a statement said that multiple protesters were injured in “groundless beatings” at the hands of the police. On Saturday, Berlin had deployed around 5,600 officers to oversee the May Day protests.

(With inputs from agencies)

Berlin witnessed May Day protests on Saturday which left nearly 100 police officers injured. According to the police, over 300 people were arrested after the rallies showed “unacceptable” violence.

Berlin witnessed May Day protests on Saturday which left nearly 100 police officers injured. According to the police, over 300 people were arrested after the rallies showed “unacceptable” violence. Authorities on Sunday said that over 30,000 people took part in multiple rallies across the German capital on Saturday, a tradition in many European countries on May Day or International Workers’ Day. The police added that most demonstrations remained largely peaceful but violence was witnessed in the evening as “black bloc” protesters were pulled from the crowd for not following COVID-19 guidelines. The series of rallies were dubbed as “Revolutionary May Day” and saw attendance from different groups against racism, capitalism and the increasing cost of living in Berlin. Eventually, violence ensued with protesters throwing glass bottles and stones at police officers. In addition, many dustbins and wooden pallets were also set ablaze in the streets. In pics: On International Workers' Day, French rally against reforms in unemployment benefits According to Berlin’s interior ministry, at least 93 police officers were injured in the clashes and 354 people were detained. "Violence during demonstrations is absolutely unacceptable," AFP quoted Berlin police chief Barbara Slowik as saying. "The situation did degenerate but was quickly brought under control," she added. Berlin State Interior Minister Andreas Geisel condemned the “blind destruction rage” and the violence which ensued. Berlin’s Mayor Michael Mueller also commented on the violence, saying “violence, hatred and ignorance have no place in our society, not on May 1 or any other day". In pics: May 1: History and significance of International Workers' Day On the other hand, the organisers of the “Revolutionary May Day” in a statement said that multiple protesters were injured in “groundless beatings” at the hands of the police. On Saturday, Berlin had deployed around 5,600 officers to oversee the May Day protests. (With inputs from agencies)

Berlin police condemn violence during May Day protests which injured 93 officers

Indirect&nbsp;talks&nbsp;between&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;and the United States on bringing both sides fully back into compliance with the 2015&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;deal are making steady&nbsp;progress&nbsp;and will&nbsp;resume&nbsp;on&nbsp;Friday, the head of&nbsp;Russia's delegation said on Saturday.

The&nbsp;talks&nbsp;began last month in Vienna with the remaining parties to the deal -&nbsp;Iran,&nbsp;Russia, China, France, Britain and Germany - meeting in the basement of a luxury hotel, and the United States, based in another hotel across the street.&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;has refused to hold direct meetings with US&nbsp;officials.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-welcomes-saudi-arabias-change-of-tone-sees-new-era-of-cooperation-381536">Iran welcomes Saudi Arabia's 'change of tone', sees 'new era of cooperation'</a>

Washington pulled out of the deal in 2018 under President Donald Trump and reimposed sanctions against Tehran.&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;responded as of 2019 by breaching many of the deal's limits on its&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;activities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/despite-concerns-us-pushes-policy-to-improve-nuclear-arsenal-381500">Despite concerns, US pushes policy to improve nuclear arsenal</a>

"We should not expect breakthroughs in the days to come,"&nbsp;Russia's ambassador to the UN&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;watchdog, Mikhail Ulyanov, told reporters after a meeting of the remaining parties that wrapped up the third round of&nbsp;talks. He was the only official to address reporters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-eyes-major-rollback-in-iran-sanctions-to-revive-nuke-deal-381503">US eyes major rollback in Iran sanctions to revive nuke deal</a>

"We need simply to continue diplomatic, day-to-day work, and we have all the reasons to expect that the outcome, (the) final outcome, will be successful and it will come quite soon, in a few weeks," he said, adding that&nbsp;talks&nbsp;will reconvene on&nbsp;Friday.

The break in&nbsp;talks&nbsp;was widely expected as diplomats said officials from several countries are also involved in the Group of Seven foreign ministers' meeting in London that begins on Monday and ends on Wednesday.

Russia&nbsp;is generally one of the more optimistic voices at the&nbsp;talks. US&nbsp;National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said on&nbsp;Friday&nbsp;the&nbsp;talks&nbsp;were in "an unclear place", meaning it was uncertain whether they would lead to an agreement.

Indirect talks between Iran and the United States on bringing both sides fully back into compliance with the 2015 nuclear deal are making steady progress and will resume on Friday, the head of Russia's delegation said on Saturday.

Indirect talks between Iran and the United States on bringing both sides fully back into compliance with the 2015 nuclear deal are making steady progress and will resume on Friday, the head of Russia's delegation said on Saturday. The talks began last month in Vienna with the remaining parties to the deal - Iran, Russia, China, France, Britain and Germany - meeting in the basement of a luxury hotel, and the United States, based in another hotel across the street. Iran has refused to hold direct meetings with US officials. Also read | Iran welcomes Saudi Arabia's 'change of tone', sees 'new era of cooperation' Washington pulled out of the deal in 2018 under President Donald Trump and reimposed sanctions against Tehran. Iran responded as of 2019 by breaching many of the deal's limits on its nuclear activities. Also read | Despite concerns, US pushes policy to improve nuclear arsenal "We should not expect breakthroughs in the days to come," Russia's ambassador to the UN nuclear watchdog, Mikhail Ulyanov, told reporters after a meeting of the remaining parties that wrapped up the third round of talks. He was the only official to address reporters. Also read | US eyes major rollback in Iran sanctions to revive nuke deal "We need simply to continue diplomatic, day-to-day work, and we have all the reasons to expect that the outcome, (the) final outcome, will be successful and it will come quite soon, in a few weeks," he said, adding that talks will reconvene on Friday. The break in talks was widely expected as diplomats said officials from several countries are also involved in the Group of Seven foreign ministers' meeting in London that begins on Monday and ends on Wednesday. Russia is generally one of the more optimistic voices at the talks. US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said on Friday the talks were in "an unclear place", meaning it was uncertain whether they would lead to an agreement.

Iran nuclear talks make progress and will resume Friday, Russia says

&nbsp;

Lovebirds Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas were spotted at Mumbai's Kalina airport on Tuesday morning. The couple, who got engaged in September this year took a private flight to Jodhpur.&nbsp;

<img alt="Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas. Image via Yogen Shah" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4bc93364-f0ef-4fcd-8bae-fb81b4c2161f" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/nickpc2.jpg" /> 
<img alt="Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas. Image via Yogen Shah" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0b60d592-b4fc-4d6e-ba4b-a0f2692d2374" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/nickpc1.jpg" />

While it appears that the two have gone to the popular destination for a vacation, fans have been wondering if the two have gone scout for the wedding venue. Reports state that the wedding is going to be a mix of American and Indian tradition and Jodhpur can serve as the perfect location for a grand wedding.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BobHVsLADaO/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Mobbed in Jodhpur #nickjonas #priyankachopra #media #airport #travel #tuesday #paparazzi @manav.manglani</a>

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Nick arrived in Mumbai on Saturday and even played a game of football with MS Dhoni, Ishaan Khatter and others. Priyanka is currently shooting in India for Shonali Bose's film co-starring Farhan Akhtar.&nbsp;

Lovebirds Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas were spotted at Mumbai's Kalina airport on Tuesday morning. The couple, who got engaged in September this year took a private flight to Jodhpur.

Lovebirds Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas were spotted at Mumbai's Kalina airport on Tuesday morning. The couple, who got engaged in September this year took a private flight to Jodhpur. While it appears that the two have gone to the popular destination for a vacation, fans have been wondering if the two have gone scout for the wedding venue. Reports state that the wedding is going to be a mix of American and Indian tradition and Jodhpur can serve as the perfect location for a grand wedding. View this post on Instagram Mobbed in Jodhpur #nickjonas #priyankachopra #media #airport #travel #tuesday #paparazzi @manav.manglani A post shared by Manav Manglani (@manav.manglani) on Oct 2, 2018 at 1:15am PDT × Nick arrived in Mumbai on Saturday and even played a game of football with MS Dhoni, Ishaan Khatter and others. Priyanka is currently shooting in India for Shonali Bose's film co-starring Farhan Akhtar.

Germany to return bronzes looted by Britain from Nigeria

Germany&nbsp;must update its climate law by the end of next year to set out how it will bring carbon emissions down nearly to zero by 2050, its top court ruled on Thursday, siding with a young woman who argued rising sea levels would engulf her family farm.

The court concluded that a law passed in 2019 had failed to make sufficient provision for cuts beyond 2030, casting a shadow over a signature achievement of Chancellor Angela Merkel's final term in office.

"The challenged provisions do violate the freedoms of the complainants, some of whom are still very young," the court said in a statement. "The provisions irreversibly offload major emission reduction burdens onto periods after 2030."

Ministers said they would draw up the necessary legislation soon, with Economy Minister Peter Altmaier promising proposals next week.

Among the plaintiffs was Sophie Backsen, 22, daughter of a farming family on the North Sea island of Pellworm, who fears that rising sea levels would engulf her low-lying island, leaving her with no inheritance.

"We are super happy with the court's decision," she told a news conference. "Effective climate protection has to be implemented now and not in 10 years' time, when it'll be too late."

The law commits&nbsp;Germany&nbsp;to ensuring that by 2030 carbon dioxide emissions should be at least 55% lower than in 1990, and that almost no carbon dioxide be emitted by 2050.

The challenge was backed by environmental groups including Greenpeace and the Fridays for Future movement inspired by Swedish activist Greta Thunberg.

"The court has handed down a major and significant ruling," said Economy Minister Peter Altmaier in a tweet. "It is epoch-making for climate protection and the rights of young people. And it creates certainty for the economy."

The ruling was stark in the obligations it imposed on the government, said Roda Verheyen, a lawyer for the plaintiffs.

"The court focuses on the civil liberties of future generations, saying those rights are being infringed already today," she said. "This isn't vague, but a very clear decision about fundamental rights."

The ruling could also have political repercussions before an election in September that may see the environmentalist Greens participate in government.

Markus Soeder, premier of the southern state of Bavaria, said the ruling offered an opportunity that his conservative bloc should embrace.

"Don't duck away from this, but tackle it now," he said, adding the conservatives should set the pace on the issue.

In 2019, the Dutch supreme court also imposed&nbsp;tougher climate change regulation on its government, saying it had done too little to protect the low-lying country's citizens from threats to their "lives and wellbeing."

Germany must update its climate law by the end of next year to set out how it will bring carbon emissions down nearly to zero by 2050, its top court ruled on Thursday, siding with a young woman who argued rising sea levels would engulf her family farm.

Germany must update its climate law by the end of next year to set out how it will bring carbon emissions down nearly to zero by 2050, its top court ruled on Thursday, siding with a young woman who argued rising sea levels would engulf her family farm. The court concluded that a law passed in 2019 had failed to make sufficient provision for cuts beyond 2030, casting a shadow over a signature achievement of Chancellor Angela Merkel's final term in office. "The challenged provisions do violate the freedoms of the complainants, some of whom are still very young," the court said in a statement. "The provisions irreversibly offload major emission reduction burdens onto periods after 2030." Ministers said they would draw up the necessary legislation soon, with Economy Minister Peter Altmaier promising proposals next week. Among the plaintiffs was Sophie Backsen, 22, daughter of a farming family on the North Sea island of Pellworm, who fears that rising sea levels would engulf her low-lying island, leaving her with no inheritance. "We are super happy with the court's decision," she told a news conference. "Effective climate protection has to be implemented now and not in 10 years' time, when it'll be too late." The law commits Germany to ensuring that by 2030 carbon dioxide emissions should be at least 55% lower than in 1990, and that almost no carbon dioxide be emitted by 2050. The challenge was backed by environmental groups including Greenpeace and the Fridays for Future movement inspired by Swedish activist Greta Thunberg. "The court has handed down a major and significant ruling," said Economy Minister Peter Altmaier in a tweet. "It is epoch-making for climate protection and the rights of young people. And it creates certainty for the economy." The ruling was stark in the obligations it imposed on the government, said Roda Verheyen, a lawyer for the plaintiffs. "The court focuses on the civil liberties of future generations, saying those rights are being infringed already today," she said. "This isn't vague, but a very clear decision about fundamental rights." The ruling could also have political repercussions before an election in September that may see the environmentalist Greens participate in government. Markus Soeder, premier of the southern state of Bavaria, said the ruling offered an opportunity that his conservative bloc should embrace. "Don't duck away from this, but tackle it now," he said, adding the conservatives should set the pace on the issue. In 2019, the Dutch supreme court also imposed tougher climate change regulation on its government, saying it had done too little to protect the low-lying country's citizens from threats to their "lives and wellbeing."

Germany must tighten climate law to protect young people's future, court rules

With Germany's Green party leading the polls ahead of September's general&nbsp;elections, the ecologists' would-be successor to Angela Merkel has become increasingly&nbsp;targeted&nbsp;by internet trolls and&nbsp;fake&nbsp;news in recent weeks.

From wild claims about CO2-emitting cats and dogs to George Soros photo collages, 40-year-old Annalena Baerbock has been the subject of a dizzying array of&nbsp;fake&nbsp;news, conspiracy theories and online attacks since she was announced as the&nbsp;Greens' chancellor candidate in mid-April.&nbsp;

The latest polls have the&nbsp;Greens&nbsp;either ahead of or level with Merkel's ruling conservatives, as the once fringe party further establishes itself as a leading electoral force in Europe's biggest economy.

Baerbock herself also consistently polls higher than her conservative and centre-left rivals in the race to succeed Merkel, who will leave office after 16 years this autumn.

Yet her popularity has also brought about unwanted attention and a glut of&nbsp;fake&nbsp;news stories aimed at discrediting Baerbock as she bids to become Germany's first Green chancellor.

False claims&nbsp;

Among the false stories circulating about Baerbock is the bizarre claim that she wants to ban household pets in order to reduce carbon dioxide emissions.&nbsp;

Another&nbsp;fake&nbsp;story firmly denied by the party claimed that she defied rules on mask-wearing and social-distancing by embracing colleagues upon her nomination earlier this month.

Baerbock has also been presented as a "model student" of Hungarian billionaire George Soros, a hate figure for the European far-right and anti-Semitic conspiracy theorists, in a mocked-up social media graphic, shared among others by a far-right MP.

More serious online attacks include a purported photo of Baerbock which in fact shows a similar-looking naked model.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Greens' campaign manager Michael Kellner said that the attempts to discredit Baerbock had "taken on a&nbsp;new&nbsp;dimension", that "women are&nbsp;targeted&nbsp;more heavily by online attacks than men, and that is also true of our candidate".&nbsp;

Other false claims about the party include reports of a proposed ban on barbecues, as well as plans to disarm the police and enforce the teaching of the Quran in schools.&nbsp;

While such reports are patently absurd, they are potentially damaging to Baerbock and her party as they bid to spring a surprise victory in September.

"She has a very real chance, but the coming weeks are going to be very important because Baerbock's public image is still taking shape," Thorsten Faas, a political scientist&nbsp;at Berlin's Free University told AFP.

In a bid to fight back against the flood of false information, the party has launched a&nbsp;new&nbsp;"online fire service" to report&nbsp;fake&nbsp;news stories.&nbsp;

Russian disinformation&nbsp;

Yet stemming the tide is no easy job, with many of those who peddle disinformation now using private messaging services such as WhatsApp and Telegram rather than public platforms such as Facebook.

The pandemic and ongoing restrictions on public life will also make it harder for the campaign to push through their own narratives at public events.&nbsp;

Miro Dittrich of Germany's Amadeu-Antonio anti-racism foundation claims that lockdown has "played a role" in the spread of&nbsp;fake&nbsp;news.&nbsp;

"People are isolated from their social environment and are spending a lot more time online," he said.&nbsp;

Another factor is Russia, which has made Germany a primary target of its efforts to spread disinformation in Europe.&nbsp;

According to the European anti-disinformation platform EUvsDisinfo, Germany has been the target of 700 Russian disinformation cases since 2015, compared to 300 aimed at France and 170 at Italy.&nbsp;

As an outspoken critic of the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Germany and Russia, Baerbock may well become a target of such attacks during the&nbsp;election&nbsp;campaign.

With Germany's Green party leading the polls ahead of September's general elections, the ecologists' would-be successor to Angela Merkel has become increasingly targeted by internet trolls and fake news in recent weeks.

With Germany's Green party leading the polls ahead of September's general elections, the ecologists' would-be successor to Angela Merkel has become increasingly targeted by internet trolls and fake news in recent weeks. From wild claims about CO2-emitting cats and dogs to George Soros photo collages, 40-year-old Annalena Baerbock has been the subject of a dizzying array of fake news, conspiracy theories and online attacks since she was announced as the Greens' chancellor candidate in mid-April. The latest polls have the Greens either ahead of or level with Merkel's ruling conservatives, as the once fringe party further establishes itself as a leading electoral force in Europe's biggest economy. Baerbock herself also consistently polls higher than her conservative and centre-left rivals in the race to succeed Merkel, who will leave office after 16 years this autumn. Yet her popularity has also brought about unwanted attention and a glut of fake news stories aimed at discrediting Baerbock as she bids to become Germany's first Green chancellor. False claims Among the false stories circulating about Baerbock is the bizarre claim that she wants to ban household pets in order to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Another fake story firmly denied by the party claimed that she defied rules on mask-wearing and social-distancing by embracing colleagues upon her nomination earlier this month. Baerbock has also been presented as a "model student" of Hungarian billionaire George Soros, a hate figure for the European far-right and anti-Semitic conspiracy theorists, in a mocked-up social media graphic, shared among others by a far-right MP. More serious online attacks include a purported photo of Baerbock which in fact shows a similar-looking naked model. The Greens' campaign manager Michael Kellner said that the attempts to discredit Baerbock had "taken on a new dimension", that "women are targeted more heavily by online attacks than men, and that is also true of our candidate". Other false claims about the party include reports of a proposed ban on barbecues, as well as plans to disarm the police and enforce the teaching of the Quran in schools. While such reports are patently absurd, they are potentially damaging to Baerbock and her party as they bid to spring a surprise victory in September. "She has a very real chance, but the coming weeks are going to be very important because Baerbock's public image is still taking shape," Thorsten Faas, a political scientist at Berlin's Free University told AFP. In a bid to fight back against the flood of false information, the party has launched a new "online fire service" to report fake news stories. Russian disinformation Yet stemming the tide is no easy job, with many of those who peddle disinformation now using private messaging services such as WhatsApp and Telegram rather than public platforms such as Facebook. The pandemic and ongoing restrictions on public life will also make it harder for the campaign to push through their own narratives at public events. Miro Dittrich of Germany's Amadeu-Antonio anti-racism foundation claims that lockdown has "played a role" in the spread of fake news. "People are isolated from their social environment and are spending a lot more time online," he said. Another factor is Russia, which has made Germany a primary target of its efforts to spread disinformation in Europe. According to the European anti-disinformation platform EUvsDisinfo, Germany has been the target of 700 Russian disinformation cases since 2015, compared to 300 aimed at France and 170 at Italy. As an outspoken critic of the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Germany and Russia, Baerbock may well become a target of such attacks during the election campaign.

German Greens' election hopeful targeted by fake news

Otto the small elephant bull, is getting confident in the big wide world of his outside enclosure as his aunts and mother take him exploring. Born on March 22 at Munich's Hellabrunn Zoo, this is Otto's first spring.

Otto the baby elephant missing visitors as he explores outside enclosure

Germany's domestic intelligence agency has been roped in to monitor top leaders who have participated in the protest movement against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus </a>restrictions, the interior ministry confirmed on Wednesday. 
&nbsp; 
Members belonging to "Querdenker" (Lateral Thinkers) movement is the largest group that has opposed Covid restrictions and encouraged conspiracy theories related to the pandemic.&nbsp;

The interior ministry said that some protest leaders "have clearly demonstrated that their agenda goes beyond simply mobilising protests against the government's corona measures".&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/world/germany-nurse-swaps-pfizer-vaccine-with-saline-to-hide-her-fault-380196">Germany: Nurse swaps Pfizer vaccine with saline to hide her fault</a>

Their main intent appears to "permanently undermine trust in state institutions and their representatives", the ministry added, as quoted by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Such organisers are suspected to be involved with right-wing extremists such as "Reichsbuerger" (Citizens of the Reich), who have questioned the legitimacy of the modern Federal Republic of Germany and propagating anti-Semitic messages and QAnon theories, it said.&nbsp;

These promoters are also encouraging their supporters to challenge the state monopoly on violence and violate the official orders.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/world/germany-contemplates-easing-covid-restrictions-for-vaccinated-citizens-380154">Germany contemplates easing Covid restrictions for vaccinated citizens</a>

"Querdenker" protests are being conducted for the last year and have attracted thousands and at times tens of thousands of supporters.&nbsp;

Anti-vaxxers and conspiracy theorists are also seen participating in such protests.&nbsp;

Germany's Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) created a separate category to scrutinise these groups as they don't completely come under left-wing or right-wing extremism.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Germany's domestic intelligence agency has been roped in to monitor top leaders who have participated in the protest movement against coronavirus restrictions, the interior ministry confirmed on Wednesday.

Germany's domestic intelligence agency has been roped in to monitor top leaders who have participated in the protest movement against coronavirus restrictions, the interior ministry confirmed on Wednesday. Members belonging to "Querdenker" (Lateral Thinkers) movement is the largest group that has opposed Covid restrictions and encouraged conspiracy theories related to the pandemic. The interior ministry said that some protest leaders "have clearly demonstrated that their agenda goes beyond simply mobilising protests against the government's corona measures". Also read | Germany: Nurse swaps Pfizer vaccine with saline to hide her fault Their main intent appears to "permanently undermine trust in state institutions and their representatives", the ministry added, as quoted by news agency AFP. Such organisers are suspected to be involved with right-wing extremists such as "Reichsbuerger" (Citizens of the Reich), who have questioned the legitimacy of the modern Federal Republic of Germany and propagating anti-Semitic messages and QAnon theories, it said. These promoters are also encouraging their supporters to challenge the state monopoly on violence and violate the official orders. Also read | Germany contemplates easing Covid restrictions for vaccinated citizens "Querdenker" protests are being conducted for the last year and have attracted thousands and at times tens of thousands of supporters. Anti-vaxxers and conspiracy theorists are also seen participating in such protests. Germany's Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) created a separate category to scrutinise these groups as they don't completely come under left-wing or right-wing extremism. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany ropes in spy agency to monitor anti-vaxxers, Covid deniers

Germany on Monday criticised Russia's announcement that it was closing off three areas of the Black Sea for months to foreign warships.&nbsp;

The restrictions came into effect on Saturday evening and were to remain in place through October 31, Russian news agencies reported, citing the country's Defence Ministry.&nbsp;

"Restrictions on the so-called peaceful passage through coastal waters lasting for such a long period of time are without precedent and problematic from an international law perspective," said German Foreign Ministry spokesman Christofer Burger.&nbsp;

"As far as international waters and the coastal waters of illegally annexed Crimea are affected, we consider this to be a breach of international law," he told reporters in Berlin.

“We continue to urgently examine the situation there and also the legal position." According to Russian media reports, the restrictions apply to an area along the Crimean coastline between Sevastopol and Gurzuf, an area near the Kerch Peninsula, and an area near the western tip of Crimea.&nbsp;

The international community refuses to recognise the annexation of the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea, which Russia seized from Ukraine in March 2014. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Germany on Monday criticised Russia's announcement that it was closing off three areas of the Black Sea for months to foreign warships. The restrictions came into effect on Saturday evening and were to remain in place through October 31, Russian news agencies reported, citing the country's Defence Ministry.

Germany on Monday criticised Russia's announcement that it was closing off three areas of the Black Sea for months to foreign warships. The restrictions came into effect on Saturday evening and were to remain in place through October 31, Russian news agencies reported, citing the country's Defence Ministry. "Restrictions on the so-called peaceful passage through coastal waters lasting for such a long period of time are without precedent and problematic from an international law perspective," said German Foreign Ministry spokesman Christofer Burger. "As far as international waters and the coastal waters of illegally annexed Crimea are affected, we consider this to be a breach of international law," he told reporters in Berlin. “We continue to urgently examine the situation there and also the legal position." According to Russian media reports, the restrictions apply to an area along the Crimean coastline between Sevastopol and Gurzuf, an area near the Kerch Peninsula, and an area near the western tip of Crimea. The international community refuses to recognise the annexation of the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea, which Russia seized from Ukraine in March 2014. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany condemns Russian naval restrictions in Black Sea 

With the intention to help India during a surge of coronavirus cases, the European Union is preparing to send rapid assistance to the South Asian country on a priority basis, the EU chief Ursula von der Leyen said on Sunday.

"Alarmed by the epidemiological situation in India. We are ready to support," she tweeted. "The EU is pooling resources to respond rapidly to India's request for assistance via the EU civil protection mechanism."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Alarmed by the epidemiological situation in India. We are ready to support. 
 
The EU is pooling resources to respond rapidly to India’s request for assistance via the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. 
 
We stand in full solidarity with the Indian people! <a href="https://t.co/Pv8ezFPdS3">https://t.co/Pv8ezFPdS3</a>
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1386292464277852162?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The tweet has come as India is coping with oxygen shortage as the country recorded 3,49,691 new coronavirus infections and 2,767&nbsp;daily new fatalities on Sunday morning.

EU commissioner for humanitarian aid Janez Lenarcic said oxygen and medicine contributions were already being coordinated from member states.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-deeply-concerned-about-covid-outbreak-in-india-379971" hreflang="en">US to support India in its fight against coronavirus pandemic</a>

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has also announced that her government will be preparing emergency aid for India. However, there has been no clarification as to what will be offered by Germany in the aid package.

The EU is coming forward to help India almost a year after India stepped up to help the struggling countries last year in every possible way when the coronavirus outbreak had created chaos in western countries.

In addition to EU Chief and Germany, several other countries have also hinted at helping India out of the crisis — namely Australia, Russia, US, UK, Pakistan, Singapore, France among others.

With the intention to help India during a surge of coronavirus cases, the European Union is preparing to send rapid assistance to the South Asian country on a priority basis, the EU chief Ursula von der Leyen said on Sunday.

With the intention to help India during a surge of coronavirus cases, the European Union is preparing to send rapid assistance to the South Asian country on a priority basis, the EU chief Ursula von der Leyen said on Sunday. "Alarmed by the epidemiological situation in India. We are ready to support," she tweeted. "The EU is pooling resources to respond rapidly to India's request for assistance via the EU civil protection mechanism." Alarmed by the epidemiological situation in India. We are ready to support. The EU is pooling resources to respond rapidly to India’s request for assistance via the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. We stand in full solidarity with the Indian people! https://t.co/Pv8ezFPdS3 — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) April 25, 2021 × The tweet has come as India is coping with oxygen shortage as the country recorded 3,49,691 new coronavirus infections and 2,767 daily new fatalities on Sunday morning. EU commissioner for humanitarian aid Janez Lenarcic said oxygen and medicine contributions were already being coordinated from member states. Also read | US to support India in its fight against coronavirus pandemic German Chancellor Angela Merkel has also announced that her government will be preparing emergency aid for India. However, there has been no clarification as to what will be offered by Germany in the aid package. The EU is coming forward to help India almost a year after India stepped up to help the struggling countries last year in every possible way when the coronavirus outbreak had created chaos in western countries. In addition to EU Chief and Germany, several other countries have also hinted at helping India out of the crisis — namely Australia, Russia, US, UK, Pakistan, Singapore, France among others.

EU offers 'immediate aid' to help India out of Covid crisis

Germany is hoping to start easing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> restrictions specifically for people who have been <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccinated</a> against the deadly virus.

The authorities have drafted a proposal which will be discussed with Chancellor Angela Merkel’s government in a meeting on Monday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-vaccinates-more-than-half-of-population-with-first-jab-against-coronavirus-report-379917" hreflang="en">UK vaccinates more than half of population with first jab against coronavirus: Report</a>

As per the draft text, seen by news agency AFP, the proposal is aimed at making sure that the people who have been vaccinated completely should not feel jailed at home. It is about "lifting curbs on their basic rights that are no longer justified".

This has come at a time when the country is trying to fight the third wave of coronavirus. Meanwhile, the authorities have successfully administered 22 per cent of Germans with the first dose of the vaccine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rides-to-jabs-disneyland-paris-turns-into-covid-vaccine-centre-379911" hreflang="en">Rides to jabs: Disneyland Paris turns into Covid vaccine centre</a>

As per the proposed guidelines, people who have been fully vaccinated will not be asked to show a negative Covid report before entering shops and attending events. They will also not be required to quarantine themselves after travelling abroad.

However, they will still be asked to wear face masks and maintain social distance.

Meanwhile, Finance Minister Olaf Scholz has said the restrictions might not ease as the coronavirus infection rate rose at the weekend despite stricter restrictions.

"We need a timetable how to get back to normal life, but it must be a plan that won't have to be revoked after just a few days," he told local media.

Germany is hoping to start easing coronavirus restrictions specifically for people who have been vaccinated against the deadly virus. The authorities have drafted a proposal which will be discussed with Chancellor Angela Merkel’s government in a meeting on Monday.

Germany is hoping to start easing coronavirus restrictions specifically for people who have been vaccinated against the deadly virus. The authorities have drafted a proposal which will be discussed with Chancellor Angela Merkel’s government in a meeting on Monday. Also read | UK vaccinates more than half of population with first jab against coronavirus: Report As per the draft text, seen by news agency AFP, the proposal is aimed at making sure that the people who have been vaccinated completely should not feel jailed at home. It is about "lifting curbs on their basic rights that are no longer justified". This has come at a time when the country is trying to fight the third wave of coronavirus. Meanwhile, the authorities have successfully administered 22 per cent of Germans with the first dose of the vaccine. Also read | Rides to jabs: Disneyland Paris turns into Covid vaccine centre As per the proposed guidelines, people who have been fully vaccinated will not be asked to show a negative Covid report before entering shops and attending events. They will also not be required to quarantine themselves after travelling abroad. However, they will still be asked to wear face masks and maintain social distance. Meanwhile, Finance Minister Olaf Scholz has said the restrictions might not ease as the coronavirus infection rate rose at the weekend despite stricter restrictions. "We need a timetable how to get back to normal life, but it must be a plan that won't have to be revoked after just a few days," he told local media.

Germany contemplates easing Covid restrictions for vaccinated citizens

Germany will shut out all travellers arriving from India apart from its own citizens, Health Minister Jens Spahn said Saturday, as a new variant has made the South Asian country the latest coronavirus hotspot.

"We're very worried about the new mutation of the virus discovered in India. So as not to endanger our vaccination programme, India travel has to be significantly limited," Spahn told the Funke newspaper group.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="Germany pulls virus 'emergency brake' but not all on board">Germany pulls virus 'emergency brake' but not all on board</a>

From Monday, only German citizens will be allowed to enter the country when arriving from India, he added.

As Spahn plans to designate India a "virus variant zone", travellers will have to be tested before departure for Germany and immediately enter a 14-day quarantine on arrival.

Berlin had already dubbed India a "zone with particularly high risk of infection" with effect from Sunday.

Germany is the latest of several countries to restrict travel from India over the new variant, following Canada, Britain and Kuwait.

On Saturday, India reported a record daily number of deaths from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>, while the government is struggling to provide enough oxygen to overwhelmed hospitals.

A total of almost 190,000 people have died of coronavirus in India according to official figures.

Germany will shut out all travellers arriving from India apart from its own citizens, Health Minister Jens Spahn said Saturday, as a new variant has made the South Asian country the latest coronavirus hotspot.

Germany will shut out all travellers arriving from India apart from its own citizens, Health Minister Jens Spahn said Saturday, as a new variant has made the South Asian country the latest coronavirus hotspot. "We're very worried about the new mutation of the virus discovered in India. So as not to endanger our vaccination programme, India travel has to be significantly limited," Spahn told the Funke newspaper group. Also read | Germany pulls virus 'emergency brake' but not all on board From Monday, only German citizens will be allowed to enter the country when arriving from India, he added. As Spahn plans to designate India a "virus variant zone", travellers will have to be tested before departure for Germany and immediately enter a 14-day quarantine on arrival. Berlin had already dubbed India a "zone with particularly high risk of infection" with effect from Sunday. Germany is the latest of several countries to restrict travel from India over the new variant, following Canada, Britain and Kuwait. On Saturday, India reported a record daily number of deaths from COVID-19, while the government is struggling to provide enough oxygen to overwhelmed hospitals. A total of almost 190,000 people have died of coronavirus in India according to official figures.

Germany restricts travel from 'high-risk' India

Germans are facing tougher nationwide Covid-19 measures from Saturday, including night curfews and school closures, after the government passed a disputed new law designed to slow infections.

With many of its neighbours lifting restrictions despite higher&nbsp;virus&nbsp;rates, Europe's biggest economy is bucking the trend with the new national law dubbed the "emergency&nbsp;brake". Passed amid huge protests in Berlin this week, the law prescribes uniform national restrictions and is designed to end a tug of war between the federal government and&nbsp;Germany's 16 states.

Tough measures will apply from Saturday in all regions with incidence rates of more than 100 new infections per 100,000 people over the last seven days, including sweeping shutdowns and overnight curfews.&nbsp;Schools must also revert to virtual teaching in areas where the incidence rate exceeds 165.

Eight German states had an incidence rate above 165&nbsp;on&nbsp;Friday, with the national average hovering at 164.

'Authoritarian fig leaf'&nbsp;

Conservative daily Die Welt called the new law "an authoritarian fig leaf designed to conceal failures of strategy, vaccination and testing".&nbsp;

The liberal, pro-business FDP party has vowed to take legal action to have it overturned, with party chief Christian Lindner calling it "unconstitutional".

With Munich confirmed&nbsp;on&nbsp;Friday as a host city for the upcoming Euro 2020 football championship,&nbsp;which starts in June&nbsp;the new law means that whether fans will be allowed to attend will ultimately depend&nbsp;on&nbsp;the infection rates then.&nbsp;The mayor of Munich said there was no "guarantee", contradicting a UEFA statement that the southern German city would host "a minimum of 14,500 spectators" at its four games.&nbsp;Munich&nbsp;on&nbsp;Friday had an incidence rate of 148.2.

The new restrictions have also caused confusion&nbsp;on&nbsp;the question of travel through areas with high incidence rates.&nbsp;"Anyone who does not want to commit an administrative offence may not cross the affected districts by car, train or even plane during the curfew," the FDP's Wolfgang Kubicki told the Bild daily.

Virus&nbsp;restrictions in&nbsp;Germany&nbsp;had previously been decided in consultations between Chancellor Angela Merkel and the leaders of the 16 states, with the regions ultimately responsible for implementing them.&nbsp;But in many cases, regional leaders have failed to put in place shutdown measures which they agreed with Merkel, with many choosing broad interpretations of the rules.

Germany's Robert Koch Institute health agency reported 27,543 new Covid-19 cases in the past 24 hours&nbsp;on&nbsp;Friday and 265 deaths, with the agency's Lars Schaade warning the numbers were "still too high".&nbsp;

Germans are facing tougher nationwide Covid-19 measures from Saturday, including night curfews and school closures, after the government passed a disputed new law designed to slow infections.

Germans are facing tougher nationwide Covid-19 measures from Saturday, including night curfews and school closures, after the government passed a disputed new law designed to slow infections. With many of its neighbours lifting restrictions despite higher virus rates, Europe's biggest economy is bucking the trend with the new national law dubbed the "emergency brake". Passed amid huge protests in Berlin this week, the law prescribes uniform national restrictions and is designed to end a tug of war between the federal government and Germany's 16 states. Tough measures will apply from Saturday in all regions with incidence rates of more than 100 new infections per 100,000 people over the last seven days, including sweeping shutdowns and overnight curfews. Schools must also revert to virtual teaching in areas where the incidence rate exceeds 165. Eight German states had an incidence rate above 165 on Friday, with the national average hovering at 164. 'Authoritarian fig leaf' Conservative daily Die Welt called the new law "an authoritarian fig leaf designed to conceal failures of strategy, vaccination and testing". The liberal, pro-business FDP party has vowed to take legal action to have it overturned, with party chief Christian Lindner calling it "unconstitutional". With Munich confirmed on Friday as a host city for the upcoming Euro 2020 football championship, which starts in June the new law means that whether fans will be allowed to attend will ultimately depend on the infection rates then. The mayor of Munich said there was no "guarantee", contradicting a UEFA statement that the southern German city would host "a minimum of 14,500 spectators" at its four games. Munich on Friday had an incidence rate of 148.2. The new restrictions have also caused confusion on the question of travel through areas with high incidence rates. "Anyone who does not want to commit an administrative offence may not cross the affected districts by car, train or even plane during the curfew," the FDP's Wolfgang Kubicki told the Bild daily. Virus restrictions in Germany had previously been decided in consultations between Chancellor Angela Merkel and the leaders of the 16 states, with the regions ultimately responsible for implementing them. But in many cases, regional leaders have failed to put in place shutdown measures which they agreed with Merkel, with many choosing broad interpretations of the rules. Germany's Robert Koch Institute health agency reported 27,543 new Covid-19 cases in the past 24 hours on Friday and 265 deaths, with the agency's Lars Schaade warning the numbers were "still too high".

Germany pulls virus 'emergency brake' but not all on board

German parliament's upper house on Thursday approved the Infection Protection Act that has given rise to a controversy. The last hurdle before the passage of the law is the president's signature.

Chancellor Angela Merkel's government had asked parliament for temporary powers to enforce a nationwide coronavirus lockdown after several regions failed to impose agreed curbs to bring a third wave of the pandemic under control.

As per the draft law presented to the cabinet, a compulsory national "emergency-brake" will be introduced if the number of new infections per 100,000 residents in a district or city exceeds 100 for three consecutive days within a week.

The measures include curfews between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m., as well as limiting private gatherings to one household plus one other person.

No shops barring the essential ones will remain open. Opening of cultural and recreational facilities such as theatres, museums and zoos will be prohibited.

Schools will have to return to distance learning if the virus incidence rises above 165 per 100,000 for three consecutive days.

The change to the law will apply until June 30.

Police clashed with protesters in Berlin on Wednesday as they tried to disperse a rally against the coronavirus lockdown while parliament debated the law to give the national government more powers to fight a third wave of the pandemic.

Germany reported a rise of 24,884 coronavirus cases on Wednesday, bringing the total to nearly 3.19 million. Some 80,634 people have died and doctors have warned that unless action is taken, intensive-care units may struggle to cope.

(With inputs from agencies)

German parliament's upper house on Thursday approved the Infection Protection Act that has given rise to a controversy. The last hurdle before the passage of the law is the president's signature.

German parliament's upper house on Thursday approved the Infection Protection Act that has given rise to a controversy. The last hurdle before the passage of the law is the president's signature. Chancellor Angela Merkel's government had asked parliament for temporary powers to enforce a nationwide coronavirus lockdown after several regions failed to impose agreed curbs to bring a third wave of the pandemic under control. As per the draft law presented to the cabinet, a compulsory national "emergency-brake" will be introduced if the number of new infections per 100,000 residents in a district or city exceeds 100 for three consecutive days within a week. The measures include curfews between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m., as well as limiting private gatherings to one household plus one other person. No shops barring the essential ones will remain open. Opening of cultural and recreational facilities such as theatres, museums and zoos will be prohibited. Schools will have to return to distance learning if the virus incidence rises above 165 per 100,000 for three consecutive days. The change to the law will apply until June 30. Police clashed with protesters in Berlin on Wednesday as they tried to disperse a rally against the coronavirus lockdown while parliament debated the law to give the national government more powers to fight a third wave of the pandemic. Germany reported a rise of 24,884 coronavirus cases on Wednesday, bringing the total to nearly 3.19 million. Some 80,634 people have died and doctors have warned that unless action is taken, intensive-care units may struggle to cope. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: German parliament's upper house approves law to give government emergency powers

As India struggles with the second wave, Angela Merkel is worried about what will happen to exports of pharmaceutical products to Europe. The German Chancellor has said Europe allowed India to become "such a large pharmaceutical producer". WION’s Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Angela Merkel says Europe "Allowed India" to become a pharma hub

Germany&nbsp;would support legal action against&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;for under-delivering <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid-19</a> vaccine doses to the EU, but the&nbsp;priority&nbsp;now&nbsp;should be on securing the jabs, Health Minister Jens Spahn said Friday.

The European Commission is considering a&nbsp;lawsuit&nbsp;against the Swedish-British pharmaceutical giant for so far delivering just 31 million of the 120 million doses it had promised, according to EU diplomats.

Asked if he thought the&nbsp;lawsuit&nbsp;was a good idea, Spahn said: "If (the commission) decides to take legal action, then yes... but it's much more important to me that I get this vaccine."

Germany&nbsp;wants to "cooperate with&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;to get as many deliveries as possible as quickly as possible", he said, adding that legal issues are "not yet a&nbsp;priority&nbsp;in this phase of the pandemic".

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="Germany halts use of AstraZeneca vaccine for elderly amid reports of rare disorder">Germany halts use of AstraZeneca vaccine for elderly amid reports of rare disorder</a>

EU diplomats said Thursday no final decision has been taken on legal action but the EU executive has informed member state envoys and wants them to confirm whether they would back a&nbsp;lawsuit.

"As you know,&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;is not delivering the number of doses which have been agreed upon in the contract... This is one of the reasons why we keep our options open together with member states to take any further steps," commission spokesman Stefan De Keersmaecker said on Thursday.

One diplomat told AFP that "not all member states are in agreement" on taking the company to court, stressing that their aim was simply to have&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;deliver the doses it had promised in its contract.

Public confidence in the&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;jab has taken a blow after the European Medicines Agency, the bloc's regulator, said it was likely linked to a very rare form of blood clot affecting the brain.&nbsp;

The EMA and the commission have not changed their stance on a general use of&nbsp;AstraZeneca, saying its benefits outweigh the risks, but several EU countries have restricted its use to older citizens.

The EU, however, is&nbsp;now&nbsp;increasingly relying on the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine for its rollout, which has been accelerating since the end of March.

Germany would support legal action against AstraZeneca for under-delivering Covid-19 vaccine doses to the EU, but the priority now should be on securing the jabs, Health Minister Jens Spahn said Friday.

Germany would support legal action against AstraZeneca for under-delivering Covid-19 vaccine doses to the EU, but the priority now should be on securing the jabs, Health Minister Jens Spahn said Friday. The European Commission is considering a lawsuit against the Swedish-British pharmaceutical giant for so far delivering just 31 million of the 120 million doses it had promised, according to EU diplomats. Asked if he thought the lawsuit was a good idea, Spahn said: "If (the commission) decides to take legal action, then yes... but it's much more important to me that I get this vaccine." Germany wants to "cooperate with AstraZeneca to get as many deliveries as possible as quickly as possible", he said, adding that legal issues are "not yet a priority in this phase of the pandemic". Also Read | Germany halts use of AstraZeneca vaccine for elderly amid reports of rare disorder EU diplomats said Thursday no final decision has been taken on legal action but the EU executive has informed member state envoys and wants them to confirm whether they would back a lawsuit. "As you know, AstraZeneca is not delivering the number of doses which have been agreed upon in the contract... This is one of the reasons why we keep our options open together with member states to take any further steps," commission spokesman Stefan De Keersmaecker said on Thursday. One diplomat told AFP that "not all member states are in agreement" on taking the company to court, stressing that their aim was simply to have AstraZeneca deliver the doses it had promised in its contract. Public confidence in the AstraZeneca jab has taken a blow after the European Medicines Agency, the bloc's regulator, said it was likely linked to a very rare form of blood clot affecting the brain. The EMA and the commission have not changed their stance on a general use of AstraZeneca, saying its benefits outweigh the risks, but several EU countries have restricted its use to older citizens. The EU, however, is now increasingly relying on the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine for its rollout, which has been accelerating since the end of March.

Germany says AstraZeneca lawsuit 'not priority' for now

Germany&nbsp;would support legal action against&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;for under-delivering <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid-19</a> vaccine doses to the EU, but the&nbsp;priority&nbsp;now&nbsp;should be on securing the jabs, Health Minister Jens Spahn said Friday.

The European Commission is considering a&nbsp;lawsuit&nbsp;against the Swedish-British pharmaceutical giant for so far delivering just 31 million of the 120 million doses it had promised, according to EU diplomats.

Asked if he thought the&nbsp;lawsuit&nbsp;was a good idea, Spahn said: "If (the commission) decides to take legal action, then yes... but it's much more important to me that I get this vaccine."

Germany&nbsp;wants to "cooperate with&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;to get as many deliveries as possible as quickly as possible", he said, adding that legal issues are "not yet a&nbsp;priority&nbsp;in this phase of the pandemic".

EU diplomats said Thursday no final decision has been taken on legal action but the EU executive has informed member state envoys and wants them to confirm whether they would back a&nbsp;lawsuit.

"As you know,&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;is not delivering the number of doses which have been agreed upon in the contract... This is one of the reasons why we keep our options open together with member states to take any further steps," commission spokesman Stefan De Keersmaecker said on Thursday.

One diplomat told AFP that "not all member states are in agreement" on taking the company to court, stressing that their aim was simply to have&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;deliver the doses it had promised in its contract.

Public confidence in the&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;jab has taken a blow after the European Medicines Agency, the bloc's regulator, said it was likely linked to a very rare form of blood clot affecting the brain.&nbsp;

The EMA and the commission have not changed their stance on a general use of&nbsp;AstraZeneca, saying its benefits outweigh the risks, but several EU countries have restricted its use to older citizens.

The EU, however, is&nbsp;now&nbsp;increasingly relying on the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine for its rollout, which has been accelerating since the end of March.

Germany would support legal action against AstraZeneca for under-delivering Covid-19 vaccine doses to the EU, but the priority now should be on securing the jabs, Health Minister Jens Spahn said Friday. The European Commission is considering a lawsuit against the Swedish-British pharmaceutical giant for so far delivering just 31 million of the 120 million doses it had promised, according to EU diplomats. Asked if he thought the lawsuit was a good idea, Spahn said: "If (the commission) decides to take legal action, then yes... but it's much more important to me that I get this vaccine." Germany wants to "cooperate with AstraZeneca to get as many deliveries as possible as quickly as possible", he said, adding that legal issues are "not yet a priority in this phase of the pandemic". EU diplomats said Thursday no final decision has been taken on legal action but the EU executive has informed member state envoys and wants them to confirm whether they would back a lawsuit. "As you know, AstraZeneca is not delivering the number of doses which have been agreed upon in the contract... This is one of the reasons why we keep our options open together with member states to take any further steps," commission spokesman Stefan De Keersmaecker said on Thursday. One diplomat told AFP that "not all member states are in agreement" on taking the company to court, stressing that their aim was simply to have AstraZeneca deliver the doses it had promised in its contract. Public confidence in the AstraZeneca jab has taken a blow after the European Medicines Agency, the bloc's regulator, said it was likely linked to a very rare form of blood clot affecting the brain. The EMA and the commission have not changed their stance on a general use of AstraZeneca, saying its benefits outweigh the risks, but several EU countries have restricted its use to older citizens. The EU, however, is now increasingly relying on the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine for its rollout, which has been accelerating since the end of March.

Police clashed with thousands of protesters in Berlin on Wednesday as the German parliament passed an amendment to give Angela Merkel's government power to impose tougher anti-coronavirus measures.&nbsp;

With Germany buckling under a third wave of the pandemic, the new law allowing for nationwide curbs including school closures and night curfews aims to end a political tug-of-war between the federal government and the 16 regional states over virus restrictions. &nbsp;

Around 8,000 protesters gathered in the German capital as the amendment was debated in the Bundestag lower house of parliament, with more than 2,000 police officers deployed to the scene.&nbsp;

Demonstrators were carrying placards with slogans such as "Merkel &amp; Co = high treason" and chanting "Wir sind das Volk" ("We are the people") -- a common refrain in the run-up to the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989.&nbsp;

Police said some 150 people were detained for throwing bottles, attacking officers and failing to comply with rules on mask wearing and distancing. Three officers were injured.&nbsp;

Tear gas was fired as police attempted to drag protesters from the streets, according to an AFP video journalist at the scene.&nbsp;

Dubbed the "emergency brake", the amended law prescribes tough measures including sweeping shutdowns and overnight curfews in regions with incidence rates of more than 100 new infections per 100,000 people over the last seven days.&nbsp;

It will also force schools to revert to virtual teaching in areas where the incidence rate exceeds 165.&nbsp;

Only one state had an incidence rate below 100 on Wednesday, while seven topped 165, including the two most populous of Bavaria and North Rhine-Westphalia.&nbsp;

Police clashed with thousands of protesters in Berlin on Wednesday as the German parliament passed an amendment to give Angela Merkel's government power to impose tougher anti-coronavirus measures.

Police clashed with thousands of protesters in Berlin on Wednesday as the German parliament passed an amendment to give Angela Merkel's government power to impose tougher anti-coronavirus measures. With Germany buckling under a third wave of the pandemic, the new law allowing for nationwide curbs including school closures and night curfews aims to end a political tug-of-war between the federal government and the 16 regional states over virus restrictions. Around 8,000 protesters gathered in the German capital as the amendment was debated in the Bundestag lower house of parliament, with more than 2,000 police officers deployed to the scene. Demonstrators were carrying placards with slogans such as "Merkel & Co = high treason" and chanting "Wir sind das Volk" ("We are the people") -- a common refrain in the run-up to the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. Police said some 150 people were detained for throwing bottles, attacking officers and failing to comply with rules on mask wearing and distancing. Three officers were injured. Tear gas was fired as police attempted to drag protesters from the streets, according to an AFP video journalist at the scene. Dubbed the "emergency brake", the amended law prescribes tough measures including sweeping shutdowns and overnight curfews in regions with incidence rates of more than 100 new infections per 100,000 people over the last seven days. It will also force schools to revert to virtual teaching in areas where the incidence rate exceeds 165. Only one state had an incidence rate below 100 on Wednesday, while seven topped 165, including the two most populous of Bavaria and North Rhine-Westphalia.

Police clash with protesters as Germany passes virus law 

Germany is in talks with Russia to purchase the latter's coronavirus vaccine Sputnik V, the German state of Saxony confirmed on Thursday.&nbsp;

"Germany is negotiating 3 x 10 million doses for June, July, August. The prerequisite for this is the swift EMA approval of the vaccine," Saxony state premier Michael Kretschmer wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;

Kretschmer also discussed the supply with Russian President Vladimir Putin and his tweet was posted after his meeting with Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko. &nbsp;

Watch |

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-india-approves-russias-sputnik-v-vaccine-377159/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Kremlin in a statement confirmed Kretschmer speaking with Putin in a phone call in which the former talked about collective efforts to fight Covid-19.&nbsp;

"Putin confirmed the readiness of the Russian side to cooperate with German partners to this end, in particular to organise deliveries and joint production of vaccines," the statement said.&nbsp;

The move comes amid the strained relations between the EU and Russia over a number of issues including Kremlin opposition Alexei Navalny's health and the crisis at the Ukrainian border.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-eyeing-russias-sputnik-vaccine-production-to-overcome-supply-shortage-from-india-379009">Bangladesh eyeing Russia's Sputnik vaccine production to overcome supply shortage from India</a>

Berlin gathered controversy earlier in April when it said talks had begun with Kremlin for buying doses of the Sputnik vaccine without waiting for a coordinated response from the EU, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Germany is in talks with Russia to purchase the latter's coronavirus vaccine Sputnik V, the German state of Saxony confirmed on Thursday. "Germany is negotiating 3 x 10 million doses for June, July, August.

Germany is in talks with Russia to purchase the latter's coronavirus vaccine Sputnik V, the German state of Saxony confirmed on Thursday. "Germany is negotiating 3 x 10 million doses for June, July, August. The prerequisite for this is the swift EMA approval of the vaccine," Saxony state premier Michael Kretschmer wrote on Twitter. Kretschmer also discussed the supply with Russian President Vladimir Putin and his tweet was posted after his meeting with Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko. Watch | Kremlin in a statement confirmed Kretschmer speaking with Putin in a phone call in which the former talked about collective efforts to fight Covid-19. "Putin confirmed the readiness of the Russian side to cooperate with German partners to this end, in particular to organise deliveries and joint production of vaccines," the statement said. The move comes amid the strained relations between the EU and Russia over a number of issues including Kremlin opposition Alexei Navalny's health and the crisis at the Ukrainian border. Also read | Bangladesh eyeing Russia's Sputnik vaccine production to overcome supply shortage from India Berlin gathered controversy earlier in April when it said talks had begun with Kremlin for buying doses of the Sputnik vaccine without waiting for a coordinated response from the EU, news agency AFP reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany in talks with Russia to buy 30 million Sputnik V jabs

Germany: Police clash with protesters as thousands demonstrate against new amendment

Germany announced on Wednesday that its withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan will be completed by July 4.&nbsp; The country’s defence ministry announced plans of withdrawal after the United States claimed that its troops would be out of Afghanistan by September 11.

"The current thinking... is to shorten the withdrawal period. A withdrawal date of July 4 is being considered," a spokesperson from the German defence ministry told AFP. However, the official added that the final decision still rests with NATO.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-troops-in-afghanistan-the-20-year-war-377951/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Last week, NATO had agreed to begin withdrawal of troops by May 1. NATO’s training and support mission boasts 9,600 troops including Americans. It is heavily dependent on the infrastructure of Americans, including military assets.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/us-continues-to-have-dialogue-with-pakistan-on-terrorism-along-afghanistan-border-pentagon-378834" hreflang="en">US continues to have dialogue with Pakistan on terrorism along Afghanistan border: Pentagon &nbsp;</a>

In addition, personnel from 36 NATO countries and partner nations are still in Germany. Germany has the second biggest contingent of soldiers in the Afghanistan after US with 1,1000 troops.

Currently, peace talks between the Taliban and Afghanistan government remain deadlocked. Taliban has called for a complete withdrawal of foreign troops for peace talks to continue taking place.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/afghanistan-ready-for-coalition-forces-pull-out-president-ghani-378527" hreflang="en">Afghanistan ready for coalition forces' pull out: President Ghani</a>

Even though many analysts have blamed countries for abandoning Afghanistan, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken recently defended the decision, claiming that the threats of terror had significantly moved to other places.

He also stressed on the need to refocus resources towards China and the pandemic.

(With inputs from agencies)

Germany announced on Wednesday that its withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan will be completed by July 4. The country’s defence ministry announced plans of withdrawal after the United States claimed that its troops would be out of Afghanistan by September 11.

Germany announced on Wednesday that its withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan will be completed by July 4. The country’s defence ministry announced plans of withdrawal after the United States claimed that its troops would be out of Afghanistan by September 11. "The current thinking... is to shorten the withdrawal period. A withdrawal date of July 4 is being considered," a spokesperson from the German defence ministry told AFP. However, the official added that the final decision still rests with NATO. Last week, NATO had agreed to begin withdrawal of troops by May 1. NATO’s training and support mission boasts 9,600 troops including Americans. It is heavily dependent on the infrastructure of Americans, including military assets. Also read: US continues to have dialogue with Pakistan on terrorism along Afghanistan border: Pentagon In addition, personnel from 36 NATO countries and partner nations are still in Germany. Germany has the second biggest contingent of soldiers in the Afghanistan after US with 1,1000 troops. Currently, peace talks between the Taliban and Afghanistan government remain deadlocked. Taliban has called for a complete withdrawal of foreign troops for peace talks to continue taking place. Also read: Afghanistan ready for coalition forces' pull out: President Ghani Even though many analysts have blamed countries for abandoning Afghanistan, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken recently defended the decision, claiming that the threats of terror had significantly moved to other places. He also stressed on the need to refocus resources towards China and the pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany to pull troops from Afghanistan by July 4

The co-leader of Germany's Greens, Annalena Baerbock, said on Monday, she would run to become chancellor in September's elections, the first time the left-leaning party has sought the top job in its 40-year history.&nbsp;

Baerbock, a former champion trampolinist, who has seen support for her party rise over the past year, said she would offer a 'new start' and focus on investing in education, digital and green technologies.&nbsp;

Analysts said the chance of an outright win for the ecologist party was still a long shot - though the Greens have become a formidable force that has profited from voters' fatigue with Chancellor Angela Merkel's conservatives. &nbsp;

Baerbock's group still trails the conservatives by around five points in the polls, despite signs of divisions in the conservative camp that has ruled Germany for 16 years.&nbsp;

Baerbock, 40, sought to allay fears about her relative lack of experience. "Democracy lives off change. Yes, I was never a chancellor and never a minister," she told a news conference. "I stand for renewal. Other stand for the status-quo."&nbsp;

"We would like to lead this government - but since politics is not a wish-fulfillment exercise, it will be up to the voters to decide who will come out of this election with how much strength," she added.&nbsp;

Baerbock was nominated for the chancellorship by her party and formally presented on Monday by co-leader Robert Habeck - an orderly process that stood in contrast to public divisions among the conservatives.&nbsp;

Armin Laschet, chairman of the Christian Democrats (CDU) and Markus Soeder of their CSU Bavarian sister party, remained at loggerheads on Monday over which of them should lead their increasingly strained alliance.&nbsp;

"While Laschet and Soeder are still fighting in the arena and the potential damage to the party could be great, the Greens have delivered a masterpiece of political professionalism," ING economist Carsten Brzeski said.&nbsp;

The Greens, who were born in 1980 out of the ecologist movement of the late 1960s and 1970s, govern the southwestern state of Baden-Wuerttemberg, a former conservative stronghold.&nbsp;

A Forsa poll last week put support for the Greens on 23%, behind 27% for Merkel's alliance.&nbsp;

To lead a coalition government, the Greens could team up with the left-leaning Social Democrats (SPD), which the Forsa poll showed to have 15% support, and the liberal Free Democrats (FDP), at 9%. Another three-way tie-up could be with the SPD and the far-left Linke.&nbsp;

In a more likely scenario, given the current numbers, the Greens could also join government as junior partner to Merkel`s conservatives. &nbsp;

Finance Minister and SPD chancellor candidate Olaf Scholz was quick to congratulate Baerbock on her candidacy, tweeting that he was "looking forward to an exciting and fair competition".&nbsp;

A person close to Scholz, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that Scholz and Baerbock had a good and professional relationship and their parties had many overlapping policy goals. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The co-leader of Germany's Greens, Annalena Baerbock, said on Monday, she would run to become chancellor in September's elections, the first time the left-leaning party has sought the top job in its 40-year history.

The co-leader of Germany's Greens, Annalena Baerbock, said on Monday, she would run to become chancellor in September's elections, the first time the left-leaning party has sought the top job in its 40-year history. Baerbock, a former champion trampolinist, who has seen support for her party rise over the past year, said she would offer a 'new start' and focus on investing in education, digital and green technologies. Analysts said the chance of an outright win for the ecologist party was still a long shot - though the Greens have become a formidable force that has profited from voters' fatigue with Chancellor Angela Merkel's conservatives. Baerbock's group still trails the conservatives by around five points in the polls, despite signs of divisions in the conservative camp that has ruled Germany for 16 years. Baerbock, 40, sought to allay fears about her relative lack of experience. "Democracy lives off change. Yes, I was never a chancellor and never a minister," she told a news conference. "I stand for renewal. Other stand for the status-quo." "We would like to lead this government - but since politics is not a wish-fulfillment exercise, it will be up to the voters to decide who will come out of this election with how much strength," she added. Baerbock was nominated for the chancellorship by her party and formally presented on Monday by co-leader Robert Habeck - an orderly process that stood in contrast to public divisions among the conservatives. Armin Laschet, chairman of the Christian Democrats (CDU) and Markus Soeder of their CSU Bavarian sister party, remained at loggerheads on Monday over which of them should lead their increasingly strained alliance. "While Laschet and Soeder are still fighting in the arena and the potential damage to the party could be great, the Greens have delivered a masterpiece of political professionalism," ING economist Carsten Brzeski said. The Greens, who were born in 1980 out of the ecologist movement of the late 1960s and 1970s, govern the southwestern state of Baden-Wuerttemberg, a former conservative stronghold. A Forsa poll last week put support for the Greens on 23%, behind 27% for Merkel's alliance. To lead a coalition government, the Greens could team up with the left-leaning Social Democrats (SPD), which the Forsa poll showed to have 15% support, and the liberal Free Democrats (FDP), at 9%. Another three-way tie-up could be with the SPD and the far-left Linke. In a more likely scenario, given the current numbers, the Greens could also join government as junior partner to Merkel`s conservatives. Finance Minister and SPD chancellor candidate Olaf Scholz was quick to congratulate Baerbock on her candidacy, tweeting that he was "looking forward to an exciting and fair competition". A person close to Scholz, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that Scholz and Baerbock had a good and professional relationship and their parties had many overlapping policy goals. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany's Greens make first bid for chancellery, promise change 

Germany hosted a memorial on Sunday to pay tribute to nearly 80,000 people the country lost to coronavirus. German President, Chancellor and relatives of the ones who died attended the memorial.

Germany mourns the death of COVID victims

Germany pays respect to 80,000 coronavirus victims in a ceremony

Amid a surge in coronavirus cases in Germany, Chancellor Angela Merkel has urged the German parliament to pass a bill that will grant her government powers to impose a lockdown and curfew.

Noting the alarming increase in cases, Merkel warned that Germany was looking at a "third wave" which could turn out to be deadlier than past.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pfizer-ceo-says-third-dose-of-covid-19-vaccine-likely-needed-within-12-months-377860" hreflang="en">Pfizer CEO says third dose of COVID vaccine 'likely' needed within 12 months</a>

"The nationwide emergency brake is overdue because even if it is difficult to hear again today the situation is serious," she "And we must all take it seriously too. The third wave of the pandemic has our country firmly in its grip," she said.

Merkel also claimed that citizens are in favour of introducing stricter measures to contain the widespread coronavirus.

This came as Germany recorded 25,831 new cases of coronavirus and 247 deaths within 24 hours, as per the Robert Koch Institute disease control centre.

She also worried about the increasing number of patients in the ICUs and said the health care workers have been sending distress calls.&nbsp;

"Who are we to ignore their pleas?,"&nbsp;she said talking about rising ICU admissions. "We cannot be permitted to leave the doctors and nurses alone."

Amid a surge in coronavirus cases in Germany, Chancellor Angela Merkel has urged the German parliament to pass a bill that will grant her government powers to impose a lockdown and curfew.

Amid a surge in coronavirus cases in Germany, Chancellor Angela Merkel has urged the German parliament to pass a bill that will grant her government powers to impose a lockdown and curfew. Noting the alarming increase in cases, Merkel warned that Germany was looking at a "third wave" which could turn out to be deadlier than past. Also read | Pfizer CEO says third dose of COVID vaccine 'likely' needed within 12 months "The nationwide emergency brake is overdue because even if it is difficult to hear again today the situation is serious," she "And we must all take it seriously too. The third wave of the pandemic has our country firmly in its grip," she said. Merkel also claimed that citizens are in favour of introducing stricter measures to contain the widespread coronavirus. This came as Germany recorded 25,831 new cases of coronavirus and 247 deaths within 24 hours, as per the Robert Koch Institute disease control centre. She also worried about the increasing number of patients in the ICUs and said the health care workers have been sending distress calls. "Who are we to ignore their pleas?," she said talking about rising ICU admissions. "We cannot be permitted to leave the doctors and nurses alone."

Germany in grip of third wave: Angela Merkel warns amid coronavirus surge

Amid growing tensions around the Ukraine border, Joe Biden dispatched his top ministers to Europe. NATO has reaffirmed its support to Ukraine. 500 more US soldiers will be sent to Germany. Will this be enough to ensure a de-escalation from Russia? WION's Palki Sharma has more.

Gravitas: Amid Ukraine tensions, US to deploy 500 more soldiers in Germany

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin will travel to Israel, Germany, Britain and the NATO headquarters in Belgium in the coming week for talks with government and military leaders, the Pentagon announced Thursday.

The highest ranked official of the administration of President Joe Biden to visit Israel, Austin will meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Benny Gantz, where discussions will cover "shared priorities" and reaffirm Washington's commitment to Israel maintaining military superiority over its neighbors, according to a Pentagon statement.

In Europe, he will hold talks with German defense minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer and Chancellery Foreign and Security Policy Advisor Dr. Jan Hecker, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and British defense minister Ben Wallace.

Austin will leave Washington on Saturday, but the dates for his stops in each country were not given.

The trip coincides with rising tensions between Israel and Iran just as the Biden administration tries to engage Tehran over returning to the nuclear pact effectively torn up by former president Donald Trump.

In Europe it comes as Russia has sent shivers across the continent with the massing of a troops and war equipment along its border with Ukraine.

"Russia now has more troops on the border of Ukraine than at any time since 2014," White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said Thursday, saying Biden was "increasingly concerned."

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin will travel to Israel, Germany, Britain and the NATO headquarters in Belgium in the coming week for talks with government and military leaders, the Pentagon announced Thursday.

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin will travel to Israel, Germany, Britain and the NATO headquarters in Belgium in the coming week for talks with government and military leaders, the Pentagon announced Thursday. The highest ranked official of the administration of President Joe Biden to visit Israel, Austin will meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Benny Gantz, where discussions will cover "shared priorities" and reaffirm Washington's commitment to Israel maintaining military superiority over its neighbors, according to a Pentagon statement. In Europe, he will hold talks with German defense minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer and Chancellery Foreign and Security Policy Advisor Dr. Jan Hecker, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and British defense minister Ben Wallace. Austin will leave Washington on Saturday, but the dates for his stops in each country were not given. The trip coincides with rising tensions between Israel and Iran just as the Biden administration tries to engage Tehran over returning to the nuclear pact effectively torn up by former president Donald Trump. In Europe it comes as Russia has sent shivers across the continent with the massing of a troops and war equipment along its border with Ukraine. "Russia now has more troops on the border of Ukraine than at any time since 2014," White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said Thursday, saying Biden was "increasingly concerned."

Pentagon chief Austin to visit Israel, Germany, Britain

The foreign and defence ministers of Japan and Germany will hold a “2 plus 2” virtual dialogue in mid-April -- in the wake of China taking an increasingly aggressive foreign policy approach in the Indo-Pacific region.

The daily Yomiuri reported on Monday that the “2 plus 2” talks will be the first among the two countries, and they are expected to discuss ways to defence and a “free and open Indo-Pacific” in face of an increasingly assertive China.

The two parties are looking to speak on April 16, the Yomiuri also said. The exact has, however, so far not been confirmed.

Last September, Germany drew up diplomatic and trade guidelines for the Indo-Pacific region that sought to reverse course from its heavy focus on China and boost its security presence in Asia, including the dispatching of a frigate to the Indo-Pacific region.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel reached a broad agreement on an information protection pact with then-Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe during her visit to Japan in February 2019.

Tokyo already has similar pacts with the United States and Australia.

(with inputs)

The foreign and defence ministers of Japan and Germany will hold a “2 plus 2” virtual dialogue in mid-April -- in the wake of China taking an increasingly aggressive foreign policy approach in the Indo-Pacific region.

The foreign and defence ministers of Japan and Germany will hold a “2 plus 2” virtual dialogue in mid-April -- in the wake of China taking an increasingly aggressive foreign policy approach in the Indo-Pacific region. The daily Yomiuri reported on Monday that the “2 plus 2” talks will be the first among the two countries, and they are expected to discuss ways to defence and a “free and open Indo-Pacific” in face of an increasingly assertive China. The two parties are looking to speak on April 16, the Yomiuri also said. The exact has, however, so far not been confirmed. Last September, Germany drew up diplomatic and trade guidelines for the Indo-Pacific region that sought to reverse course from its heavy focus on China and boost its security presence in Asia, including the dispatching of a frigate to the Indo-Pacific region. German Chancellor Angela Merkel reached a broad agreement on an information protection pact with then-Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe during her visit to Japan in February 2019. Tokyo already has similar pacts with the United States and Australia. (with inputs)

Japan and Germany to hold first '2 plus 2' dialogue talks in April

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