The Latest Breaking News from Friedrich Merz

Ukraine president urges month-long truce after Russia suggests three-day one to mark a world war two victory. What we know on day 1,161

Chancellor-designate vows to tackle Russian aggression and appoints Johann Wadephul, an ex-soldier, to key role

Recent proposals put forward in countries such as Sweden, Finland and Germany reflect wider shift, say analysts

The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) has topped a national poll for the first time, prompting the popular Bild newspaper to carry the headline: “AfD breaks the magic barrier”. The poll put the AfD on 26% and the Christian democratic CDU/CSU on 25%.

While Germany's chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz is already plagued by criticism and sinking poll numbers at home, his EU partners are eagerly awaiting him on the Brussels scene. They expect him to replace the dullness of his predecessor with strong leadership - and Merz is willing to deliver.

Call for greater protection for asylum seekers and policies targeting rightwing violence as report sounds ‘alarm bell’

World leaders hail legacy of compassion and humility as they mourn the Argentinian pontiff.

The EU, the world’s biggest single market, can reposition itself and become less reliant on exporting goods to the US and China, says Paul Taylor of the European Policy Centre

Trump praises Italian PM and accepts invitation that could present chance to meet other European leaders