German economic stimulus + Europe's armament in space
The new German Finance Minister presents a plan to boost the ailing economy. And the head of the European Space Agency (ESA) explains in an interview with RND how he intends to strengthen defense from space.
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With these five topics from Germany and the world, you are well informed for your Wednesday.
This is what happened: Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof (68) has resigned and announced new elections. Prior to this, right-wing populist Geert Wilders (61) had caused the government coalition to collapse following a dispute over migration policy.
This is why it's important: With its traditionally pro-European stance, the Netherlands has been one of the pillars of the EU for decades. However, the now-failed coalition with the participation of right-wing populists distanced itself from Brussels on many issues.
Here's what's next: The election is expected to take place in the fall. According to recent polls, Wilders' PVV would lose, but would remain the strongest party. The right-liberal VVD and the joint list of the Green-Left and Labour parties of former EU Commissioner Frans Timmermans (64) could gain ground.
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What it's about: The CDU-SPD coalition aims to stimulate the economy after more than two years of recession. Federal Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil (47, SPD) is submitting a draft bill to the cabinet today. This includes easier depreciation allowances, a subsidy for electric cars, a higher research allowance, and a gradual reduction in corporate taxes.
That's why it's important: Triggering new growth is one of the federal government's most important goals – the 25-page concept is internally titled "Growth Booster." The tax relief is intended to increase companies' willingness to invest, stimulate innovation, and thus strengthen Germany as a business location.
This is how it continues: The draft law still has to go through the Bundestag and then through the Bundesrat, where resistance is looming: the states fear revenue losses and are demanding compensation.
This is what happened: The Berlin Administrative Court has ruled that asylum seekers may not simply be turned away at the German border.
This is why it's important: The new federal government has promised a change in migration policy. The CDU and SPD believe its success will be crucial to stopping the AfD's continued rise in votes.
Here's what's next: Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (54, CSU) intends to stick to the new policy of rejections despite the ruling – and is supported in this by Chancellor Friedrich Merz (69, CDU). The SPD is keeping quiet. Experts expect further rulings like the one from Berlin. Whether the government's line can be maintained remains uncertain.
What it's about: The European Space Agency (ESA) wants to become more involved in security and defense from space. The goal is to be able to capture images of every area of the Earth – in extremely high resolution, at high frequency, secured, verified for authenticity, and anonymized. Defense from space will "become a new domain in the coming years," says ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher (62).
That's why it's important: Wars are now also being waged from orbit – for example, by satellites spying on enemy troops. US President Donald Trump (78), for example, dreams of a missile system that would ward off threats from the air and space.
Here's what's next: The exact program isn't finalized yet; ESA is currently coordinating with the EU Commission.
What it's about: The German national team aims to win its first title since the 2017 Confederations Cup. In the Nations League semifinals, the team will face Portugal tonight (9 p.m., ZDF) in Munich.
That's why it's important: National coach Julian Nagelsmann (37) hopes that his team will continue to mature in order to challenge for the World Cup title in 2026. Their role model is Spain, which won the Nations League two years ago – and then became European champions in 2024.
Here's what happens next: A win against Portugal will see the German national team face the winner of the second semi-final between Spain and France in the final on Sunday. A loss would mean a third-place play-off (also on Sunday) in Stuttgart.
Wishing you a happy Wednesday
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The RedaktionsNetzwerk Deutschland (RND) with its hundreds of correspondents provides you with information about Germany, the world, and a growing number of regions and cities in Germany, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Use our RND app and rnd.de. Learn more about our network and our partner editorial offices at rnd.de/netzwerk .
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