Russia Policy: Berlin says it will maintain sanctions on Moscow and coordinate further measures with EU partners, despite Washington’s temporary easing of restrictions on Russian diesel. EU Budget: Chancellor Friedrich Merz rejected the latest 2028–34 spending proposal, arguing it remains too large and cuts too deeply into priorities such as defence and research. International Justice: Germany joined seven countries in condemning US sanctions against the International Criminal Court, warning they could disrupt its work. Politics and History: The Bundestag recognised Germany’s particular responsibility to Ukraine for Nazi-era atrocities. The AfD’s historic win of a state parliament speakership is also intensifying debate over Germany’s political firewall. Society: A law change allows people who gained German citizenship at birth to keep another nationality without choosing between them. Economic Pressure: Business insolvencies rose 6.9% in the first seven months of 2026, while Deutsche Bahn plans to require staff to work in the office three days a week.