German politician; SPD leader, vice chancellor and finance minister since 2025
Germany's government has unveiled a broad package of reforms, including €10 billion in annual tax relief for lower-income earners, pension overhauls, tighter sick-leave rules, and reduced bureaucracy. The plan, financed by raising the top tax rate for high earners, aims to boost growth and competitiveness but faces mixed reactions from unions and business groups as it seeks Bundestag and Bundesrat approval.
Israeli justice and security officials have announced the death-penalty framework is advancing. Ben-Gvir has publicly shown a site with foundations for a hang facility and viewing booths for victims’ families, as protests and international condemnation mount. The plan applies to Palestinians tried in military courts and has sparked debate over discriminatory application and safeguards.
Brent crude has climbed toward $97 a barrel after renewed exchanges of strikes between the United States and Iran over the past week. US strikes have hit sites along Iran's southern coast while Iran has attacked US-linked vessels and bases in the region; shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains constrained and US pump and diesel prices have risen.
Russia's finance minister has attended G20 finance talks in Asheville for the first in-person time since 2022. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has met him and told him that no sanctions relief or economic agreements are possible while the war in Ukraine continues. European officials have refused to treat Russia as a normal participant and skipped a group photo with him.
The G20 finance talks have focused on China and the broader impact of U.S. tariffs, with officials arguing that non-market economies are shaping global growth. Treasury Secretary Bessent has warned that tariffs will redirect Chinese goods to other markets, while other leaders call for balance and guardrails on AI regulation.
European governments, led by Germany, have moved to cut energy taxes and cap fuel prices ahead of elections as oil markets stay volatile amid Middle East tensions. The steps aim to ease consumer burden while lawmakers debate windfall taxes on oil majors.