Expectations for Chancellor Friedrich Merz (69, CDU) and his government are high. Today, he will further stoke them in his first government statement in the German Bundestag.
With this and four other topics from Germany and the world, you are well informed for your Wednesday.
What it's about: Friedrich Merz will deliver his first government statement in the Bundestag today. He is expected to outline his goals for his first 100 days. His first week in office was marked by travel abroad.
That's why it's important: The first 100 days will determine whether the new black-red coalition can inspire confidence. It has promised a change in policy, which in turn should bring about a change in mood. To achieve this, the CDU/CSU and SPD must quickly fulfill promises: for example, lowering electricity prices, supporting the economy, and curbing illegal migration.
Here's what's next: Following Merz, individual ministers are expected to make their own statements to the Bundestag this week, outlining what citizens can expect from their policies. The first laws are expected to be passed by the start of the parliamentary summer recess in mid-July.
This is what happened: The vice chairman of the US company Microsoft, Brad Smith (66), advertised for his European customers in a long text.
Why it's important: Many European companies are now nervous about their digital dependence on the US. Infrastructure often runs on cloud services provided by major tech companies. The fear is that US President Donald Trump (78) could simply shut them down, or costs could explode due to tariff disputes.
Here's what's happening: German IT companies are benefiting from the Trump effect. Providers of cloud and office solutions report that customer inquiries have tripled in some cases since Trump took office in January.
What it's about: US President Trump wants to reduce the budget of the space agency NASA by about 24 percent. It would be the largest single-year funding cut in American history.
Why it's important: Trump's austerity plans jeopardize several space programs. Affected are, among others, the Mars Sample Return Mission, which was supposed to bring samples from the Red Planet back to Earth, and the SLS rocket for the Artemis lunar missions, which is now scheduled to be retired after three flights. Both are missions in which Europe is also involved.
Here's what's next: The European Space Agency (ESA) is discussing how to continue working with NASA, its most important partner in space. At the ESA Council in June, the organization plans to discuss solutions for the affected space programs with its member states.
This is what happened: The Federal Ministry of the Interior banned the Reich Citizens' Association "Kingdom of Germany" on Tuesday. Hundreds of police officers were deployed in seven federal states and arrested four people.
That's why it's important: The "Kingdom" was the largest Reich Citizens' group in Germany at the time and was working on a "counter-state."
Here's what's next: The Federal Prosecutor General has taken over the investigation against, among others, "King" Peter Fitzek (59). The trial against the Reich Citizens could reveal further connections.
This is what it's about: In Germany, the expansion of mobile phone networks with transmission and reception technology on street lamps is starting on a large scale.
Background: Mobile data usage is growing rapidly. Where large numbers of people are present at the same time, conventional networks are increasingly reaching the limits of their performance. Multi-function masts, which enable extremely high transmission speeds, are intended to provide a solution. This will make streaming and online gaming even more attractive for users – which will further increase data consumption.
Here's what's next: Network operator O2-Telefónica plans to connect Germany's 25 largest cities this year. The other network operators will also quickly accelerate the expansion of their new infrastructure.
We'll get back to you tomorrow. Until then, I wish you a pleasant Wednesday,
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