The Black-Red coalition is accelerating the expansion of the Bundeswehr, in the USA a court is putting the brakes on the customs policy of President Donald Trump (78) – but the blockade will not last long.
With these five topics from Germany and the world, you are well informed for your Friday.
This is what it is about: Chancellor Friedrich Merz (69, CDU) wants to make the Bundeswehr the strongest army in Europe.
That's why it's important: Time is running out, experts and politicians like Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (65, SPD) warn: Russia could be in a position to attack NATO states as early as the end of the decade.
Here's what's next: The necessary money for the Bundeswehr's rearmament has been available since defense spending was exempted from the debt brake. However, modernizing the force will take a long time.
This is what happened: Donald Trump's administration has, for the time being, successfully defended itself against a court blockade of his tariffs.
That's why it's important: After the appeals court's decision, Trump can continue his aggressive trade policy – for now. However, the uncertainty and chaos are growing, and businesses are suffering the most.
Here's what's next: The Court of Appeals now wants to examine the case more closely, and the legal dispute over the tariffs is expected to make its way through the courts all the way to the Supreme Court.
What it's about: The presidential election in Poland enters its second round on Sunday. Liberal candidate Rafal Trzaskowski (53) has only a slim lead in the polls over his national-conservative rival Karol Nawrocki (42).
This is why it's important: The president can use his veto power to block key government projects. Prime Minister Donald Tusk (68) is hoping for the victory of his party colleague Trzaskowski so he can govern.
Here's what's next: German-Polish relations are on the verge of a new beginning. However, a victory for Nawrocki would complicate this: he recently raised his old demand for German reparations.
This is what it's about: The world's glaciers are melting at an unprecedented rate, recently losing 273 billion tons of ice per year.
Here's what's next: The International Glacier Conference, where representatives from governments, UN organizations, institutes, and civil society will discuss better protection of glaciers, runs until June 1st.
This is what it's about: On social media platforms like Instagram, fraudulent business coaches advertise big business – and cheat unsuspecting participants out of their money.
This is why it's important: The professional title of coach is not protected in Germany. Unscrupulous providers exploit this and lure their victims into a cost trap—and, in the worst case, into psychological dependence. This is why psychologists from cult information centers are increasingly addressing the issue.
Here's what's next: Professional business coaches are calling for a uniform quality seal for trustworthy providers. Until then, those interested in coaching can only benefit from a critical look at the relevant offerings.
Have a great start to the weekend. We'll be back for you on Monday.
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