Arms
Germany rises to fourth largest arms exporter
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According to a report by the Stockholm-based SIPRI peace research institute, Germany has overtaken China to become the fourth largest exporter of major weapons. Nearly a quarter of German deliveries went to Ukraine, while Europe as a whole has tripled its imports. The rise is driven primarily by the war in Ukraine and uncertainties about US support in NATO.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz discussed strengthening bilateral ties with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh. The talks focused on economic issues like energy and technology, as well as regional conflicts. Merz aims to elevate the partnership to a new level, including less restrictive arms exports.
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Following a raid in Lübeck, five men are in custody as part of a network allegedly exporting banned goods to Russia. Authorities accuse them of bypassing EU sanctions by using shell companies to supply dual-use items to Russian arms firms. The business expanded after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.