Sabotage of Hundreds of Cars in Germany Linked to Russian Actors

In a recent interview, historian Andreas Rödder emphasized that the risk of a world war is very real, amidst the disintegration of the existing world order and escalating tensions between East and West. Rödder, a professor at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, attributed the current geopolitical landscape to the residual imperial notions in Russia and China following the Cold War, citing the unresolved defeat of the Soviet Union as a primary cause of its resurgence. Rödder argues that the idea of relying solely on military deterrence is insufficient to address these challenges. He highlighted that the West, particularly the U.S., must demonstrate internal and external strength to counter the ambitions of revisionist powers like Russia, Iran, and China. According to Rödder, the current conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East share a thematic core: a struggle over hegemonic influence. He further noted that Western societies face significant political polarization, undermining their resilience. To navigate these turbulent waters, Rödder advocates for a revival of the principles of civil society that prioritize individual merit over collective ideologies, which he believes can foster stability and effective governance in the West.

In a recent Instagram post commemorating the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz made no mention of the Jewish victims of the Holocaust, eliciting criticism from various quarters. According to WELT columnist Mirna Funk, Scholz's omission reflects a broader trend where contemporary remembrances fail to focus on the Jewish community that should be central to such observances. Funk argues that the phrase "Never again," which has historically underscored the commitment to prevent future atrocities, no longer resonates fully with the original intent of protecting the Jewish people. She notes that this shift may stem from a psychological distancing from historical events, as contemporary discourses increasingly dilute the specific historical context of antisemitism. The column raises important questions regarding the evolution of Holocaust remembrance in Germany, suggesting that a more intentional acknowledgment of Jewish suffering is necessary to honor the memory of those who perished during the genocide. As debates continue around how societies confront their histories, the implications of Scholz's remarks are likely to persist in discussions about Holocaust education and remembrance.

Tens of thousands took to the streets of Berlin on Sunday to protest perceived breaches of a post-war political taboo involving the far-right party, Alternative for Germany (AfD). According to police estimates, around 160,000 demonstrators gathered, fueled by outrage over votes from mainstream parties, including the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), in support of a non-binding immigration resolution that included AfD collaboration. Protesters expressed concerns that such cooperation undermines democratic principles, with one demonstrator stating it was time to confront the issue directly. The protests come just weeks ahead of crucial national elections, where the CDU currently leads in polls, while AfD holds the second position. Despite the partnership, CDU leader Friedrich Merz has ruled out forming a coalition with AfD, insisting his actions were "necessary," while facing backlash, including from former Chancellor Angela Merkel. The rally began at the Bundestag and proceeded toward the CDU headquarters, signifying a growing unease among the public regarding the far-right's influence in German politics as parliament debates immigration policies intensify.