Volkswagen and BMW have reported booming sales in the United States as Donald Trump is set to announce a new wave of US tariffs on non-American goods.

The German Bundestag approved a €500 billion fund to boost defense and infrastructure spending, marking a significant shift from the country’s traditional fiscal conservatism. The legislation proposes easing Germany’s strict debt rules, allowing increased borrowing to enhance military capabilities and stimulate economic growth.

Germany’s Bundestag is poised to vote on a significant fiscal package that proposes amendments to longstanding debt policies, aiming to facilitate increased defence spending and establish a €500 billion infrastructure and climate fund.

The vote is seen as a response to Russia’s advances in Ukraine as the United States makes clear Europe can no longer rely on US protection from Russia.

Supporters of lifting the debt restrictions to boost defence spending say it’s essential for European security but there is also opposition. The decision could influence broader European defence initiatives, like the EU’s proposed €800 billion ReArm Europe fund.

Germany is assessing whether recent detentions of its citizens in the US indicate a shift in American immigration policy or if they are isolated incidents.

Five Germans have been jailed for plotting to overthrow the government and kidnap the country’s health minister. Sentences range from 5 to eight years.

Good Morning, Germany! Donald Trump and Emmanuel Macron are leading much of the global conversations…