Germany’s Merz falls short of majority in vote for chancellor

Paul Kirby and Jessica Parker In London and Berlin Conservative colleague Johann Wadephul: “I’m sure [Merz] will be the next chancellor” Germany’s conservative leader has unexpectedly fallen short of a majority in a parliament vote to become chancellor. Friedrich Merz needed 316 votes in the 630-seat Bundestag but only secured 310, in a significant blow … Read more

Ukrainian singer’s home destroyed as she rehearses

The home of Ukrainian Eurovision contestant Khrystyna Starykova has been destroyed by Russian shelling in the city of Myrnograd. The 19-year-old is currently in Switzerland rehearsing for her performance with the band Ziferblat, but posted photos of her damaged apartment block in the Sviltly neighbourhood. “Home. And I dreamed so much of returning home,” she … Read more