Overview

• Chancellor Friedrich Merz opposes a ban on the AfD, despite mounting calls from CDU colleagues like Daniel Günther and opposition leaders emphasizing the party's threat to democracy.
• Brandenburg's Interior Minister Katrin Lange resigned following controversy over the dismissal of Verfassungsschutz chief Jörg Müller, with Greens and Left leaders demanding his reinstatement.
• Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil plans budget subsidies for struggling health and care insurance systems but warns of the need for structural reforms amid fiscal constraints.
• Germany's tightened border controls face legal scrutiny and criticism from EU officials, who warn of risks to the Schengen Agreement and strained relations with neighboring countries.
• The Greens are pushing for a parliamentary inquiry into Merkel-era energy policies, including gas storage sales to Gazprom and Nord Stream 2, citing unresolved questions about energy security decisions.