Heatwave Watch: A new study says Europe’s latest heatwave was the most severe on record for the time of year, with France, Germany, Italy and Spain seeing temperatures 5°C to 12°C above seasonal norms, driven by extreme night heat and humidity. World Cup Shock: Germany’s World Cup campaign took a hit as Ecuador beat them 2-1, with coach Julian Nagelsmann calling it “tactical suicide” after Leroy Sané’s early goal. Pension Pressure: Germany’s proposed pension reforms aim to ease the burden on younger workers by moving toward a Swedish-style funded pillar and linking retirement age to life expectancy, as the baby-boomer wave nears. Defense & Industry: Germany is set to cancel the F126 frigate program and pivot to MEKO warships, while broader defense cooperation and procurement plans keep shifting. Life Sciences Deal: Merck KGaA is moving ahead with its $11.3bn Bio-Techne acquisition, boosting its life sciences footprint. Tech & Security: The US is raising a drug-pricing probe into Germany, while Germany also faces scrutiny over ransomware and cyber risks. Business & Energy: Oman’s $550m petrochemicals project at Sohar is backed by German firm MAK Germany, targeting PTA and PET for packaging.