Russia's war of aggression has shown how dependent Germany and other EU countries are on Russian oil and gas. The rapid switch to renewable energies is seen as a way out by many. However, there is a threat of new dependencies and possible supply bottlenecks for materials for wind turbines, photovoltaics, and batteries.
By Leonie Düngefeld
More than two months after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the Kremlin's propaganda machinery is showing no signs of fatigue. On the contrary, the longer Putin's war in Ukraine lasts, the more propaganda efforts Russian television makes. There is no sign of de-escalation.
By Eugenie Ankowitsch
The lockdowns in China further affect the already struggling international goods traffic. A huge ship jam is forming off the coast of Shanghai, while ports in Europe buckle under a flood of containers. This also has consequences for the movement of goods to Europe, that now takes more than twice as long.
By Redaktion Table
The Federal Court of Justice had wanted to see it differently, but now the judges in Luxembourg have clarified the matter: member states may grant qualified organizations such as consumer associations standing to sue in the enforcement of the General Data Protection Regulation. The ruling provides another building block in enforcement – and one industry, in particular. It is likely to feel the consequences soon.
By Falk Steiner
Trains are still rolling across the northern route of the New Silk Road. Despite routing via Russia and sanctions against Russian companies, container transport has only partially declined. The development of alternative routes is in full swing, but capacities are limited.
By Lukas Knigge
Since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, the cost of fertilizers has skyrocketed. Russia is one of the most important exporting countries on the world market. The price development is putting enormous pressure on European agriculture and could have an impact on food supplies.
By Timo Landenberger
Following the halt in Russian gas supplies to Poland and Bulgaria, the EU Commission is defending itself against attempts at blackmail. Experts are making predictions about the effects on the affected states and transits to the rest of the EU.
By Eric Bonse
According to a new study, direct investment from the People's Republic increased last year but remains at a relatively low level. Beijing's "zero covid" policy is responsible for this – but so are deterrent rules in the EU.
By Amelie Richter
For weeks, this has been the subject of much excited commentary: Tesla and SpaceX founder Elon Musk has made a takeover bid for Twitter. Now the offer seems successful – but the self-proclaimed free speech activist is buying a platform that will be subject to even more regulation in the future.
By Falk Steiner
Germany has been criticized for days for allegedly dragging its feet on arms deliveries to Ukraine. Even Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) has come under fire; the Greens and FDP are calling for more action and better communication. Now the German government is going on the offensive.
By Eric Bonse
