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In Berlin, European leaders, including Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and US envoys, discuss ending Ukraine conflict. US proposes security guarantees for Ukraine, dropping NATO ambitions, but Zelenskyy rejects territorial concessions. Merkel urges Russia to consider peace plan. Progress made, but no direct talks date set, as international community awaits resolution.

In Munich, Germany, a trial commences for Farhad N., a 25-year-old Afghan man accused of driving a car into a crowd, killing a woman and her toddler, and injuring 44 others. Prosecutors claim Farhad N. was motivated by religious zeal, stating he felt obligated to kill in response to global Muslim suffering. Despite being denied asylum, he was legally residing in Germany. The trial is set to conclude in late June 2026.

Europe faces a pivotal moment as leaders gather for a summit, grappling with US undermining and the urgent need to aid Ukraine. Danish Foreign Minister Rasmussen emphasizes Europes strength, while German Chancellor Merz warns of a watershed moment. The US National Security Strategy criticizes EU migration policy, prompting Europe to assert independence in security policy. The EU seeks new trade deals and increases defense spending, aiming to defend against outside attacks by 2030.

A new flu strain in Europe, dubbed superflu, has health leaders in the UK warning of a tidal wave of hospitalizations. However, experts question the superflu label, citing no evidence of increased deadliness or spread. The term has sparked debate, with critics suggesting its a tactic in ongoing doctor pay discussions. The British Medical Association and a UCL mathematician challenge the superflu narrative, stating its based on misleading stats and tied to the impending doctors strike. The UK government stands by its warnings, highlighting healthcare staff pressures, amidst ongoing disagreement on public health messaging and healthcare system pressures.

Eastern EU nations rally for shared defense funding, citing Russian threats. Leaders from eight countries meet in Helsinki, urging Brussels to contribute to border security. Incidents like Russian jet incursions and Belarusian drone flights underscore the need for collective defense. Frontline countries seek EU funds, hoping for dedicated budget allocation in the next long-term budget.

The U.S. offers Ukraine security guarantees, similar to NATOs Article Five, to end the war. The offer comes with a time limit, and Ukraine must accept soon. The U.S. hopes Russia will accept a final deal allowing Ukraine to join the EU.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is advocating for a leading EU role in the Ukraine war, pushing for a €210 billion loan backed by frozen Russian assets. Hes actively lobbying for support, even visiting Belgiums PM and EU Commission President. Merzs assertive stance, a departure from past German leaders, is driven by Trumps wavering support for Ukraine. Hes warning of severe consequences if Europe fails to stand together on the Russian assets plan.

Former President Donald Trump files a $5 billion lawsuit against BBC, alleging they deliberately edited his January 6th, 2021 speech to make it seem like he encouraged violence during the Capitol riot. The lawsuit claims BBC combined two comments nearly an hour apart, creating a false impression. BBC previously apologized but maintained it didnt constitute defamation. This marks Trumps latest effort to seek financial compensation from news organizations.