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Kremlin Rejects Claims Putin Wants Soviet Revival or NATO Attack

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The Kremlin has dismissed European accusations that Russian President Vladimir Putin aims to restore the Soviet Union or launch an attack on NATO. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Tuesday that such claims were false and disrespectful, insisting that Putin has repeatedly stated it is impossible to recreate the U.S.S.R. Putin, who once described the Soviet collapse as a major geopolitical catastrophe, has long argued this view relates to the hardship faced by Russians at the time, not a desire to rebuild the former bloc.

The remarks came after German Chancellor Friedrich Merz claimed Putin seeks to revive the “old Soviet Union” and posed a threat to NATO. Western leaders have frequently warned that a successful Russian campaign in Ukraine could embolden Moscow to target NATO member states. Putin, however, has repeatedly called the idea irrational, pointing to NATO’s military superiority.

Peskov rejected Merz’s statements as misguided and offensive, saying the allegations misrepresent Russia’s intentions. He reiterated that suggestions of Moscow preparing to attack NATO are “complete stupidity,” accusing critics of misunderstanding or deliberately twisting Russia’s official positions.

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Merz Secures Pensions Bill Despite Internal Revolt, Exposing Leadership Strains

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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz narrowly secured parliamentary approval for a contentious pensions bill, passing it with 318 votes in the 630-seat Bundestag, despite internal rebellion from members of his own conservative bloc. The bill, which adds €185 billion to pension spending over 15 years and maintains pension levels at 48% of average wages until 2031, was a key coalition agreement with the centre-left SPD.

However, the tense vote exposed Merz’s shaky control over his ruling coalition, just seven months into his term. Several conservative lawmakers opposed the plan, calling it financially irresponsible and unfair to younger generations. Analysts warn that internal conflicts and governance challenges are damaging Merz’s authority and could hinder future economic and defence reforms, while fuelling a surge in support for the far-right AfD.

Merz has pledged broader pension reforms next year, including possible longer working years and delayed pension eligibility. Despite winning international praise for his stance on Ukraine, his domestic approval has fallen sharply to about 25%. Polls show declining support for both governing parties, reinforcing concerns that the coalition appears divided, ineffective, and increasingly unstable.

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Germany Introduces Voluntary Military Service for 18-Year-Olds

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Germany’s parliament has approved a voluntary military service program for 18-year-olds, marking a major shift in the country’s defense policy. From January 2026, all 18-year-olds will receive a questionnaire asking if they are interested in joining the armed forces. While participation will initially be voluntary for men and women, mandatory medical exams for men will start in July 2027 to assess fitness for potential service. The move aims to strengthen Germany’s military after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and to meet NATO force targets.

The decision has sparked protests across the country, with students in as many as 90 cities planning strikes. Critics argue that military service disrupts lives, encourages obedience training, and exposes young people to the realities of war. In Hamburg alone, about 1,500 people were expected to protest, highlighting widespread skepticism among German youth about the new law.

Germany’s armed forces currently number around 182,000, and officials plan to increase this to 260,000 by the early 2030s, supplemented by 200,000 reservists. Incentives for voluntary service include a monthly salary of €2,600, making it more attractive than similar programs in France. The legislation reflects Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s push to rebuild the Bundeswehr into Europe’s strongest conventional army amid growing security concerns.

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Germany’s Merz Wins Crucial Vote on Pensions Reform Despite Internal Revolt

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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz secured an absolute majority in parliament on Friday for his controversial pensions bill, overcoming resistance from younger members of his own conservative bloc. The draft, which guarantees current pension levels until 2031, passed with 319 votes, indicating it likely succeeded without the support of opposition parties.

The vote came after days of turbulence within Merz’s Christian Democratic Union/Christian Social Union (CDU/CSU) alliance. A youth faction inside the party had threatened to vote against the bill, arguing that it preserves an unsustainable system and places an unfair financial burden on future generations.

The dispute underscored growing questions about Merz’s control over his party and the stability of the coalition government, which includes conservatives and the center-left Social Democrats. Analysts say the internal tensions and reliance on a slim parliamentary majority point to challenges ahead for implementing reforms aimed at reviving Germany’s struggling economy and strengthening its neglected military sector.

Across Europe, pensions and generational fairness are emerging as hot political issues as aging populations strain budgets. Although Merz ultimately avoided the embarrassment of needing opposition support—despite a surprising offer from the Left Party to abstain—the infighting has deepened doubts about his ability to steer major legislation in the future.

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Belgium Opposes EU Plan to Use Frozen Russian Assets for Ukraine

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Belgium has raised strong objections to the European Union’s plan to use frozen Russian assets to provide a “reparations loan” to Ukraine. Prime Minister Bart De Wever and Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot argue that tapping €140bn of Russian state assets held in Belgium could expose the country to massive legal risks and potential bankruptcy if Russia takes action. They have called for an alternative approach, suggesting the EU borrow the necessary funds from financial markets instead.

Most EU countries, including Germany, support the proposal, viewing it as an urgent way to fund Ukraine’s defense amid ongoing Russian attacks. Chancellor Friedrich Merz and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas argue that a reparations loan would strengthen Europe’s position against Moscow and could incentivize Russia to negotiate peace. However, legal experts and Belgium’s central securities depository, Euroclear, caution that lending these frozen assets carries significant financial and legal dangers.

The European Commission is preparing a legal framework to address the plan, but disagreements among member states have delayed progress. Belgium insists on legally binding guarantees to share risk with other EU countries, while Russia has threatened decades of litigation if the assets are used for Ukraine. With the EU summit approaching, a final decision on the contentious proposal remains uncertain.

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Germany Urges Trump to Invite South Africa to 2026 G20 Summit

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Germany said on Thursday it would work to convince U.S. President Donald Trump to reverse his decision to exclude South Africa from next year’s G20 summit in Florida. Trump has repeatedly accused South Africa’s black-majority government of mistreating its white population, citing widely debunked claims of attacks on white farmers. These assertions led Washington to boycott the recent G20 summit in Johannesburg, despite the group adopting a joint declaration on climate and global challenges.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s office said several G20 members had privately expressed support for Pretoria after Trump’s comments. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz publicly stated he would lobby Trump to extend an invitation to South Africa, stressing that G20 and G7 forums should not be reduced without solid justification. South Africa, however, said it would not campaign for backing from individual countries, noting the delicate diplomatic position many face with the United States.

Trump’s criticism intensified after he claimed South Africa mishandled the handover of the G20 presidency—an allegation Pretoria denies, saying the U.S. delegation was not present at the time. Although it is unclear how the U.S. could formally block South Africa’s participation, experts suggest visa denials could be one tactic. The dispute adds fresh strain to already tense U.S.–South Africa trade negotiations, which have been affected by new U.S. tariffs and cuts to financial assistance earlier this year.

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Germany Lifts Suspension on Israel Arms Sales as Ceasefire Holds

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Germany has announced that it will lift its suspension on certain weapons sales to Israel starting November 24, a pause that had been in place since August due to the Gaza war. The suspension covered arms and systems that could be used in Gaza, though equipment deemed essential for Israel’s external defence was still allowed. Berlin, one of Israel’s key arms suppliers after the United States, had faced strong domestic pressure over its decision to halt exports.

The German government said the resumption of sales depends on Israel maintaining the current ceasefire with Hamas and ensuring the continued large-scale delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Officials stressed that all future arms deals will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and closely monitored in line with developments on the ground. Germany reaffirmed its commitment to supporting long-term peace efforts and backing reconstruction in Gaza under a two-state framework.

The reversal drew mixed reactions: Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar praised the move and urged other nations to follow, while German Chancellor Friedrich Merz previously faced criticism from his own conservative bloc for the partial suspension. Germany has historically been one of Israel’s strongest supporters due to its responsibilities stemming from the Holocaust and supplied around 30% of Israel’s major arms imports between 2019 and 2023, including naval frigates used in the Gaza conflict.

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Germany Approves New Military Service Plan to Expand Bundeswehr

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Germany’s coalition government has agreed on a new military service plan aimed at significantly expanding the Bundeswehr amid growing security concerns in Europe. Starting next year, all 18-year-old men will be required to complete a military service questionnaire, with women participating voluntarily. From 2027, mandatory medical examinations for men will follow. The plan is designed to help Germany build Europe’s strongest conventional army and could pave the way for compulsory enlistment if targets aren’t met.

The government aims to boost active troop strength from around 182,000 to as many as 260,000 by 2035, supported by an additional 200,000 reservists. Defence leaders—including Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger—believe the goal is achievable within five years, especially as NATO pressures member states to strengthen defence capabilities in response to potential threats from Russia. Recent warnings from German defence officials have emphasised the need to be fully prepared by 2029.

However, the plan faces strong opposition from Germany’s political left and many young people, who argue that compulsory service infringes on personal freedom. Protests have emerged, with some youths expressing fear of being drawn into conflict, while others have voluntarily enlisted citing a desire to protect democracy. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius has attempted to reassure the public, insisting that a stronger, better-equipped military serves as a deterrent and reduces the likelihood of Germany entering a conflict.

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Merz Accuses Putin of Murder, Warns Against Russian Destabilisation Efforts

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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Wednesday accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of murder and attempting to destabilise the West through sabotage, espionage, and border violations. Speaking during a heated parliamentary debate, Merz cited recent Russian incursions into Polish and Romanian airspace as part of a long-running campaign to test NATO’s limits.

Merz warned against any Ukrainian surrender, stressing that a “dictated peace” without freedom would embolden Moscow to pursue further aggression. He said Russia’s strategy was aimed at unsettling democratic societies, adding, “Putin has long been testing the borders, he is sabotaging. He is spying, he is murdering, he is trying to unsettle us.” The Kremlin has previously dismissed Merz’s remarks, rejecting allegations of war crimes and denying involvement in the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny.

The debate saw sharp exchanges with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). Party leader Alice Weidel accused Merz of “posing as a global politician and warlord,” while Merz ally Jens Spahn hit back, calling Weidel a “fifth column” for Russia. The row highlights Germany’s deepening political divides over support for Ukraine as the war grinds on.

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NATO Leaders Convene in The Hague for Historic Summit as Defence Spending Target Rises to 5%

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NATO leaders gathered in The Hague for a landmark summit that German Chancellor Friedrich Merz described as “historic,” with all 32 member nations expected to commit to raising defence spending to 5% of national GDP. US President Donald Trump attended his first NATO summit since 2019, receiving public praise from Secretary General Mark Rutte for his “decisive action in Iran” and efforts in securing alliance consensus. The summit opened with a royal dinner hosted by King Willem-Alexander, with working sessions scheduled to be brief but significant

The 5% defence investment goal, more than double NATO’s long-standing 2% benchmark, marks a dramatic shift in alliance priorities, spurred by growing concerns over Russian aggression. While 3.5% will be allocated to core defence, the remaining 1.5% covers infrastructure and cybersecurity. Despite initial resistance, major players including Germany and the UK pledged to meet the target by 2029 and 2035 respectively. However, nations like Spain and Belgium voiced concerns, with Madrid seeking an exemption—an idea firmly rejected by Rutte, threatening alliance unity.

Meanwhile, the summit takes place under the shadow of renewed violence in Ukraine, with Russian missile strikes killing 20 and injuring over 160 civilians. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is set to meet Trump during the summit, arrives amid growing calls for NATO members to scale up support for Kyiv. As train services from Schiphol Airport faced suspected sabotage, Dutch authorities are investigating the incident, emphasizing the tense geopolitical climate surrounding the high-stakes summit.

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