Europe

Atlas Rates Germany as 'Limited' in Civic Openness

"The great majority of people in the world cannot raise their hand and speak freely," said Dagmar Pruin, president of Brot für die Welt (Bread of the World), at the presentation of the organization's annual report on the state of civil society and democracy on Monday.

India rebukes Dutch criticism on minorities and press freedom

Skip next section India purchasing Russian oil, regardless of US sanctions waiver — report May 18, 2026 India purchasing Russian oil, regardless of US sanctions waiver — report Prime Minister Modi recently appealed to Indians to cut down on travel in order to conserve fuelImage: dad fotos/imageBROKER/IMAGO India has indicated that it is purchasing Russian

Russian Strikes Hit Dnipro and Odesa; Dozens Injured

Russia launched a fresh wave of drone and missile strikes on cities in Ukraine overnight, local authorities said, with more than 20 people reported injured. Reports of the Russian strikes come after Ukraine launched hundreds of drone strikes over the weekend, in which the Moscow region was targeted.

Germany and Japan Push Hydrogen Mobility with BMW–Toyota Partnership

On Wednesday, German Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder arrived at Toyota's fuel cell factory in a German BMW iX5 Hydrogen, only to later depart in a Japanese Toyota Crown FCEV. The choice of cars was, of course, no coincidence, with both vehicles generating electricity from hydrogen in a fuel cell.

Germany Stakes a Claim in the New Space Race

The space industry is a multibillion-dollar business. According to a study by the German consulting firm Roland Berger and the Federation of German Industries (BDI), the market is worth around $600 billion (€516 billion) and growing. By 2040, it is predicted to be worth $2.32 trillion.

Housing Crisis in Germany Disproportionately Harms Immigrants

Finding a rental apartment with three or four rooms in Berlin? No problem for top earners. In May 2026, a major rental platform is listing a unit of just over 100 square meters (1,076 square feet) for just over €4,000 ($4,680) per month, including heating and other additional costs.

Veteran singer Heino rejects AfD political appropriation

Heino is more than just a "Schlager" (German folk pop) star in Germany: with more than 55 million records and CDs sold and 1,200 songs recorded, the 87‑year‑old is a veteran and an icon of the German music industry. His hits still resonate with young people today. He has even sung at heavy metal festivals.

Germany and Japan Back BMW–Toyota Hydrogen Drive

On Wednesday, German Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder arrived at Toyota's fuel cell factory in a German BMW iX5 Hydrogen, only to later depart in a Japanese Toyota Crown FCEV. The choice of cars was, of course, no coincidence, with both vehicles generating electricity from hydrogen in a fuel cell.

Germany roundup: UNICEF calls child well-being 'alarming'

Skip next section Small-town club Elversberg promoted to Bundesliga for first time May 17, 2026 Small-town club Elversberg promoted to Bundesliga for first time Fans invaded the pitch to celebrate their historic promotion with Mokwa, who scored twiceImage: Thilo Schmuelgen/REUTERS Elversberg have clinched promotion to Germany's top flight, the Bundesliga, for the first time.

Dara gives Bulgaria its first Eurovision victory in Vienna

Bulgaria won the Eurovision Song Contest final in Austria's capital, Vienna, on Saturday night with the song "Bangaranga" amid a boycott by five countries over Israel's participation. The song’s infectious beats and tightly choreographed dance routine proved a hit with both national juries and viewers, whose votes together decide the winner.