AfD Shockwaves in Local Politics: Germany’s CDU stayed top in Lower Saxony local elections with 27.2%, but lost ground as SPD took 24.6% and the far-right AfD surge after Saxony-Anhalt keeps Berlin on edge ahead of more state votes. Security & Extremism: Munich police are investigating a death threat against Holocaust survivor Charlotte Knobloch that referenced AfD’s election gains. Defense Posture: Defence Minister Boris Pistorius heads to the US for talks with Pete Hegseth, including plans tied to F-35 deliveries and UN peacekeeping discussions. AI Governance Debate: Berlin says halting AI development isn’t viable for Europe, while backing international oversight and warning about systems that can escape tests. Energy & Industry: A John Crane retrofit helped a German sugar producer cut sealing-cooling water use by about 80%, saving over 6.2 million litres in a six-month campaign. Tech in Logistics: Einride and Lidl launched the first cab-less Level 4 autonomous truck on a public German road under a KBA permit. Business & Finance: Deutsche Bank settled a dispute with ex-manager Dario Schiraldi over the Monte dei Paschi affair, with terms undisclosed. Sports & Culture: The NHL’s Germany return sparks complaints from the German Ice Hockey League over scheduling without consultation.