The opposition wants to put pressure on the Chancellor in today's general debate, while the US President is making life difficult for German companies.
With these five topics from Germany and the world, you are well informed for your Wednesday.
This is what happened: The tariff policy of US President Donald Trump (79) is having an impact on Germany. In May, exports fell by almost eight percent compared to the previous month, with the total volume falling to 12.1 billion euros, the lowest level in more than three years.
That's why it's important: The USA is the most important sales market for German companies – if there is no easing of the trade dispute, there is a risk of job cuts.
Here's what's next: Trump surprisingly announced a letter to the EU on Tuesday – and held out the prospect of a deal . He had previously extended a deadline for an agreement, which was supposed to expire today, until August 1. What it's about: In the case of the kidnapping of the children of steakhouse heiress Christina Block (52), her partner Gerhard Delling (66) is increasingly coming into focus. The sports journalist and former "Sportschau" presenter is alleged to have supported Block and deliberately deceived investigators. Both deny the allegations.
Background: The kidnapping of the children (then 10 and 13 years old) is the lowest point so far in a bitter custody battle between Block and her ex-husband Stephan Hensel (51). Her children continue to suffer from the consequences of the events of that New Year's Eve. The charges include aggravated child abduction, dangerous bodily harm, and abuse of a person in their care.
Here's what's next: The kidnapping trial begins on Friday at the Hamburg Regional Court, with 37 days of hearings scheduled until the end of December. If convicted, Block and Delling face several years in prison.
This is what it's about: In the last week of sessions before the parliamentary summer recess, the Bundestag will debate the budget - in the general debate today, Chancellor Friedrich Merz (69, CDU) will provide an interpretation of his first 70 or so days in government.
This is why it's important: The new federal government had announced an emergency program until the summer recess, intended to stimulate the economy and improve the mood in the country. Recently, frictions have been more prominent, for example, over electricity prices.
This is how it continues: In the autumn, the Bundestag must approve the budget; until then, Merz must ensure a stable peace in the coalition.
This is what happened: After questioning special investigator Margaretha Sudhof (66) about the controversial mask procurement by then-Health Minister Jens Spahn (45, CDU), the opposition sees a need for further clarification. Green Party politician Paula Piechotta (38) says it's one person's word against another's – "one is lying."
That's why it's important: The pressure on Spahn and the federal government to clarify the case is unlikely to diminish - but so far the black-red coalition has rejected a committee of inquiry.
Here's what happens next: Sudhof is scheduled to testify again before the Budget Committee at the end of July.
This is what it is about: Currently, the filling levels of underground natural gas storage facilities are extremely low.
Why it's important: Full gas storage facilities are crucial for winter supplies. If supply becomes scarce in the cold winter of 2025/26, tariffs for the most important heating fuel could skyrocket.
Here's what's next: Many companies are currently anticipating wholesale prices to fall soon. If these bets don't pan out, the government will have to intervene to ensure the legally required stock levels are met by fall.
Keep a cool head even in heated debates. See you tomorrow,
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