A heat wave sweeping across Europe has reached Germany, with temperatures expected to soar this week. Authorities are urging residents to keep cool and stay hydrated, while sales of air conditioners are skyrocketing.
Disapproval of Merz Rises as AfD Becomes Germany’s Most Popular Party
A new opinion poll shows support for German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and his Christian Democratic Union (CDU) continuing to decline. Only 29% of respondents expressed satisfaction with Merz’s performance since taking office in May, while 67% voiced disapproval. The CDU, together with its Bavarian sister party, the CSU, now stands at 24% voter support, falling behind the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), which leads with 26%. The Social Democratic Party (SPD) and the Greens are tied at 13% each.
German Economic Confidence Declines Amid EU-US Trade Deal Concerns
The latest data from the Leibniz Center for European Economic Research (ZEW) shows economic sentiment in Germany dropping to a three-month low. Analysts cite the recent EU-US trade agreement and weak second-quarter growth as key factors. Despite avoiding a 30% tariff on EU goods, the deal introduced a 15% tariff, making European exports more expensive, while a weaker US dollar has further impacted trade. German exports to the US fell by 3.9% in the first half of 2025.
Heat Wave Pushes Germany Toward Air-Conditioned Future
Germany is experiencing soaring summer temperatures, with forecasts predicting up to 38°C this week. In response, demand for air conditioners has surged. Domestic production rose by 92% in 2024 compared to the previous year, while imports remained near record highs, totaling €949 million. Italy, China, and Sweden are the top suppliers.
Over Half of Germans Play Video Games
A recent survey reveals that 52% of Germans play video or computer games, with equal participation among men and women. Young adults aged 19-29 make up the largest gaming demographic at 87%, while “silver gamers” over 65 represent 20%. On average, women spend 2.2 hours gaming daily, compared to 1.9 hours for men. Many respondents highlighted both the risks of addiction and the skill-building potential of gaming.
Police Union Urges Better Facilities and Equipment
Germany’s police union has called for urgent investment in modernizing stations and upgrading equipment. Reports cite outdated facilities, mold, pests, and poorly maintained vehicles, with some patrol cars having over 500,000 kilometers on the odometer.
