Friedrich Merz (69, CDU) plans to be crowned chancellor today and must hope that his theoretical majority in the Bundestag will actually be sufficient. Another election winner faces a difficult journey to Washington.
With these five topics from Germany and the world, you are well informed for your Tuesday.
This is what it's about: He has been working towards this moment for 25 years: CDU leader Merz wants to be elected Chancellor by the Bundestag today.
That's why it's important: With Merz, the CDU, the government, and presumably the country as well, are moving a bit more to the right of the political center. There should be a tougher policy on migration, more severity against recipients of the citizen's allowance, and more support for the ailing economy.
So it continues: The CDU/CSU and SPD have only 12 more MPs than needed for the chancellor election. If he is elected, Merz will be Germany's tenth chancellor. If he fails, however, chaos will erupt.
This is what happened: The German state-owned company Sefe plays a central role in deals involving liquefied natural gas from Russia. Now, environmental organizations from Ukraine and Germany are calling for an end to this.
That's why it's important: The natural gas business is an enormously important source of income for Russia's ruler Vladimir Putin (72) to finance the war in Ukraine.
Here's what's next: The new federal government could reassess the situation and change Sefe's role.
This is what happened: The Israeli government plans to militarily conquer and permanently occupy the Gaza Strip. So far, the stated goal has been to defeat Hamas, free hostages, and prevent further attacks.
That's why it's important: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (75) is going all-in with this step. An agreement with Hamas now seems further away than ever. There is massive criticism in Israel, especially from the hostages' families. The planned occupation is also met with strong international opposition.
This is how things will continue: A significant escalation of the war must be expected – with long-term political, humanitarian and security consequences for the entire Middle East region.
This is what it's about: US President Donald Trump (78) is receiving Canada's new Prime Minister Mark Carney (60) at the White House today.
Why it's important: After his election victory, Carney is under pressure to deliver quick results in the negotiations with Trump – the Canadian economy is groaning under the tariffs imposed by the US president, and automakers have already laid off thousands of employees. Bilateral relations are also strained by Trump's constant threats of annexation.
Here's what's next: Carney expects difficult negotiations and announced that he would accept "only the best deal."
This is what it's all about: Children are naturally curious and want to explore the world. They delve deeply into fascinating themes, such as dinosaurs or Pokémon. However, this natural curiosity is often stifled by existing school structures.
That's why it's important: According to studies, early enthusiasm for complex topics shows cognitive strength and helps to develop effective learning strategies and strengthen learning motivation in the long term.
Here's how it continues: With appropriate support, children can maintain their motivation to learn even outside of class. Adults play a central role in this.
Stay curious – for example about our morning situation tomorrow.
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