AfD Power Shift: Germany’s far-right AfD is set to preside over Saxony-Anhalt’s state assembly for the first time after a landslide win, with protests outside parliament and coalition talks likely involving the BSW. Ukraine Support: Chancellor Merz’s surprise Kyiv visit comes amid Russian strikes, as Germany announces major new military and drone-related aid packages and pushes to speed up Ukraine’s EU path. Security Warning: Germany’s ex-BND chief August Hanning has been arrested over alleged espionage and treason after claims he bought classified documents. EU Budget Fight: EU Commission chief von der Leyen warns against Germany-led “large cuts” to the next EU long-term budget, saying key priorities could be hit. Migration Clampdown: EU ministers approved faster returns, including detention transfers and a tighter return order process, drawing criticism from human rights groups. Tech & Privacy: German regulators warn OpenAI about personalized ads in ChatGPT built from users’ chats and device data. Business & Cyber: Asos is investigating after customers received app notifications claiming the retailer was hacked. Industry Costs: Germany’s steel sector warns grid-charge support cuts could sharply raise electricity costs, hurting competitiveness. Aviation Trends: German travelers increasingly choose Istanbul and Gulf hubs over Frankfurt/Munich as costs and climate charges rise. Culture Abroad: German Week 2026 is underway in Paraguay with German food, events and Oktoberfest-style programming.