Morning news focused on Trump's new Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's confirmation, marking a shift in Pentagon leadership. German media coverage emphasized his controversial background as a TV host.
By mid-morning, attention shifted to the release of four Israeli female soldiers from Hamas captivity after 476 days. Their release process through Gaza generated extensive coverage throughout the day.
The CDU's internal crisis over AfD cooperation intensified, with Merz attempting to clarify his position after widespread protests. Mass demonstrations materialized at Brandenburg Gate by afternoon, with reported attendance of 100,000.
Evening coverage revealed plans for meetings between Putin's intelligence chief and Trump's former CIA director, while Russian election interference in Germany gained attention. The AfD's campaign launch featured virtual appearances by Elon Musk, generating parallel coverage to the anti-right demonstrations.