Germany’s conservatives face a self-inflicted crisis

Subscribe now with a one-month trial for only $1, then enjoy the first year at an exclusive rate of just $99. The Spahn affair hits Germany before an AfD breakthroughDiego Faßnacht reports that Jens Spahn’s surrogacy controversy has exposed a damaging credibility gap inside Germany’s CDU just weeks before critical state elections, weakening the party as the AfD nears possible governing breakthroughs in eastern Germany. AI helps Japan deal with its labor shortage and inefficienciesScott Foster reports that Japan is using Nvidia-backed AI initiatives in autos and shipbuilding to offset labor shortages, streamline production and strengthen strategic industries, even as renewed energy shocks, inflation and yen weakness weigh on consumers and political support for Sanae Takaichi. Ukraine changes ministers as Russia presses its advantageJames Davis reports that Russia retains the battlefield initiative while Ukraine’s cabinet reshuffle raises fresh political and military questions in Kiev. The removal of Mykhailo Fedorov may ease pressure on Ukraine’s military establishment but risks complicating relations with key Western partners.