Germany’s chancellor argues the Syrian civil war is effectively over and that asylum grounds are no longer present, suggesting many Syrians should voluntarily return to help rebuild, with deportations for those who refuse, and inviting interim president Ahmed al-Scharaa for talks on a joint solution.

CDU lawmakers in Saxony-Anhalt react by pushing a rapid return strategy for Syrians when conditions permit, while also signaling readiness to deport criminals and plan returns.

Foreign Minister Wadephul questions the likelihood of large-scale voluntary Syrian returns given severe destruction and poor living conditions in places like Harasta.

Unconfirmed claim on Indymedia of an arson attack on AfD aide Bernd Baumann’s car; state security investigations are underway and AfD leaders condemn the act as a threat to democracy.

Incidents involving alleged far-left threats against Bernd Baumann and a car arson attack near his Hamburg home, with state security probing and AfD leadership warning about threats to democracy.

Dobrindt indicates progress toward an asylum deal with Afghanistan, while human rights groups continue to criticize Taliban governance and rights conditions.

Greens propose a five-point city policy plan—boosting municipal finances, social infrastructure, policing and justice, protecting women, and addressing housing—while criticizing Merz’s asylum rhetoric and city image concerns.

Merz’s Schleswig-Holstein visit includes a government meeting in Husum and a tour of GP JOULE to inspect green hydrogen technologies, highlighting a focus on energy transition.

Niedersachsen’s Green minister cautions against a lottery-based draft, advocating voluntary service under a 2026 Wehrdienstgesetz, as coalition discussions consider conscription options.

Junge Union calls for major government downsizing and reform, including halting the Kanzleramt expansion and merging or dissolving ministries to reduce duplication, with a Deutschlandtag meeting planned.

EU steel tariffs are advocated to counter Chinese dumping and protect German industry, reflecting broader debates on Syria return policy and trade protections.

Germany’s foreign minister reports constructive China talks, with a postponement of a high-level visit but continued invitations for German leaders to engage with China.