German Unity Day & Democracy: President Steinmeier marked German Unity Day in Bremen with a direct warning that democracy is being challenged again, as extremist forces exploit social media lies and manipulation. Eastern Germany Politics: New election results in eastern Germany underline how voter support is fragmenting and how Germany’s political center is struggling to stay relevant after far-right and far-left gains. Germany Budget Pressure: Germany’s general government deficit hit €98.8bn in the first half of 2026, with higher spending, defense costs and interest payments weighing on public finances. Poland Nuclear Update: Poland revised its nuclear strategy, pushing the first plant to 2036 and the second to 2040, while still targeting 15–16% of electricity from nuclear by 2040. Ukraine Recovery (Swiss): Switzerland approved $162m for eight Ukraine reconstruction projects, focusing on energy grid, transit and water systems. Energy Aid to Odesa: Germany-backed humanitarian deliveries sent 23+ tonnes of energy equipment to help keep Odesa’s grid running after Russian strikes. Security & Migration: A migrant accused of plotting a UK terror attack previously claimed asylum in Germany, while Germany also faces ongoing scrutiny over asylum policy and long-running security cases. Business Watch: Haribo cancelled a planned €300m Germany factory, citing higher construction costs and supply-chain disruption.