Free State of Bavaria — largest German state by area, second most populous
Thousands of protesters have mobilised in Erfurt as the far‑right Alternative for Germany (AfD) has held its national congress to re‑elect co‑leaders Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla. Police have deployed large numbers to clear blockades; most delegates have reached the conference and voting has gone ahead as planned.
A wave of Chinese automakers is expanding into Europe and the UK, challenging traditional premium brands. Zeekr, BYD and others are pursuing UK launches while major players like Geely, Volvo and Lucid push into premium segments. European and US automakers are restructuring to cope with China’s rising export power and shifting supply chains.
Germany is confronting a wave of hybrid threats including drone incursions, espionage, and cyber activity. Authorities say a drone loaded with explosives at Leipzig-Halle airport did not detonate, prompting a broader push to expand anti-drone capabilities and strengthen oversight. The incident underscores a persistent security challenge linked to foreign powers and the evolving nature of state-backed interference.
Storms have caused multiple casualties and widespread damage across Germany. In Waldorf, a 58-year-old woman has died after a tree fell on a shelter as a storm moved through Rhineland-Palatinate; a 47-year-old woman has been taken to hospital with serious injuries. Tornadoes and strong winds have damaged buildings, knocked out power, and forced evacuations at a Kronach festival. Authorities warn of more severe weather to come.
A woman has died after a knife attack at Rosenheim railway station in Bavaria. Federal police detained a 27-year-old German man at the scene. The victim and suspect names have not been released for privacy. The motive remains under investigation as authorities review circumstances.
The United Arab Emirates has announced a €40 billion investment package in Germany, announced during Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s state visit. The plan spans AI, digital infrastructure, energy, and defense, including about 1 GW of new data-center capacity and €10 billion for Bavaria. An investment council will facilitate public-private ties as bilateral non-oil trade nears €16 billion.
The far-right Alternative for Germany has surged in Saxony-Anhalt, nearly claiming government power as CDU support collapses. The shift raises questions about Germany’s place in Europe, NATO, and EU policy amid broader nationalist trends across Europe.
Germany has named Munich as its Olympic bid city for the 2036 Games, with the DOSB moving to shortlist candidates after Berlin and Hamburg withdrawn. A referendum last year backed Munich’s bid. The IOC will decide the ultimate host in 2029.