World | Deutsche Welle

Pakistan raises defense spending amid regional conflicts The sharp defense spending hike highlights lessons Pakistan has learned from recent conflicts with India and a growing focus on new warfare technologies, regardless of economic constraints imposed by the IMF. Does the Iran war diminish US superpower status? The US is still unrivaled in its ability to project military strength around the world, but Iran's success in blocking the Strait of Hormuz has raised tough question on America's role as protector of global trade. How Germany and Poland rebooted relations 35 years ago When Germany and Poland signed the Treaty on Good Neighborliness, Friendship and Cooperation in June 1991, they chose partnership over enmity and became close NATO and EU allies. But it hasn't all been plain sailing. Diplomats and abuse — chipping at the shied of immunity Domestic workers who were mistreated by diplomats are often denied justice due to their abusers enjoying diplomatic immunity. But court rulings in the UK and Switzerland have paved the way for change. European Parliament approves US trade deal to lower tariffs The European Parliament has approved cutting tariffs on many US imports to comply with a deal signed last year. US President Trump had given the bloc a July 4 deadline to meet its side of the deal. Sigh of relief in Africa as the Strait of Hormuz 'reopens' A potential US-Iran agreement could lower energy-, fertilizer- and food prices in Africa if the Strait of Hormuz fully reopens. Oil exporters such as Nigeria and Angola might have to cope with less revenue, experts say. Musk to sue German broadcaster ZDF over 'hunt for migrants' Elon Musk said he was taking legal action against one of Germany's public broadcasters after it reported that he had called for "a hunt for migrants" in Belfast. Fact check: Hitler look-alike at Germany's World Cup match? Images circulating across several platforms allegedly show a football fan who resembles Adolf Hitler during Germany's 7-1 win against Curacao. But is the viral image authentic? EU, Ukraine start formal accession talks after Orban delay The EU has formally opened the first stage of accession negotiations with Ukraine. This comes two years later than planned, as former Hungarian PM Viktor Orban was blocking the process prior to his election defeat. Strait of Hormuz reopening won't end shipping risks A proposed US-Iran deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz is raising hopes for global shipping and oil markets. But naval mines, high insurance costs and geopolitical risks mean disruption could persist for months. El Nino threatens livelihoods in Southeast Asia Hotter, drier weather is impeding rice and palm-oil production as households across Southeast Asia struggle with higher fuel, food and transport costs. US-Iran: Reported peace deal sparks both relief and anger A peace deal between the US and Iran is due to be signed this week — and while the hopes of peace may yet be dashed, the news alone was enough to trigger celebrations, backlash and political infighting on both sides. Russia strikes leave historic Kyiv cathedral in flames The Kyiv Pechersk Lavra monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was set on fire as Russia struck multiple cities in Ukraine overnight. Meanwhile, Moscow reported three deaths from a Ukrainian drone attack.