News: Putin Threatens Germany, the CDU Hides Friedrich Merz, and Hape Kerkeling Helps the SPD

Vladimir Putin is expected to speak in Vladivostok as if everything in Russia were under control: the economy strong, the war nearly won and national morale high. The article’s tone is sharply skeptical. It says the strain felt by ordinary Russians, including fear of Ukrainian drones, high prices, a fuel crisis and the burden of sanctions, is unlikely to feature in that presentation.

The article asks whether growing frustration inside Russia could make Putin more unpredictable. That question matters to Ukraine, its supporters and Germany, particularly after the failed drone attack in Leipzig. Moscow has rejected the German government’s accusations, while Putin has described the consequences as a “serious mistake.” The article suggests he could issue another warning during his appearance in Vladivostok.

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serious mistake

Berlin has already prepared for a possible Russian response, although its countermeasures have so far remained moderate. The article cites a new SPIEGEL cover story arguing that the government believes Leipzig was not an isolated incident, but may mark “the entry into a new phase of Russian aggression.” Investigators have assembled evidence and traces that point toward Russia, while the chancellor and his ministers weighed when and how to publicly assign responsibility.

The political section turns to Friedrich Merz’s campaign in Saxony-Anhalt. His appearance in Leuna is described as his second and final event before an important state election. As in Quedlinburg, the CDU leader is presented as keeping away from broad public contact, limiting the visit to a tour of a chemical plant with state premier Sven Schulze and a statement to the press. The piece also previews Hape Kerkeling’s role in soothing the Social Democrats’ spirits.

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the entry into a new phase of Russian aggression