Germans Are Voting. Here’s What to Watch For.

Germans vote on Sunday in a rare snap election that has taken on outsized importance as the new Trump administration threatens European countries with tariffs, cuts them out of negotiations over Ukraine, and embraces an authoritarian Russia. The election for Parliament was called after Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s unpopular and long-troubled three-party government collapsed in November. … Read more

Pope Francis in Critical Condition After ‘Respiratory Crisis,’ Vatican Says

Pope Francis was in critical condition on Saturday night after having a long “asthmatic respiratory crisis” that required “high flows of oxygen” as well a blood transfusion, the Vatican said, adding to concerns about the health of the 88-year-old pontiff. The announcement indicated that Francis’ medical condition had become more complicated since an update from … Read more

On the Ropes, Olaf Scholz Keeps Punching

A month ago, no one would have ever mistaken Germany’s often taciturn chancellor for an aggressive political campaigner. But prowling the stage in a dark suit and open shirt with a microphone in hand, Olaf Scholz certainly looked like one on Friday night. At a nearly euphoric rally for someone trailing in the polls, Mr. … Read more

Shocked by Trump, Europe Turns Its Hopes to Germany’s Election

In the final days of Germany’s abbreviated election campaign, the task facing its next chancellor has snapped into focus. It appears far more existential, for the country and for all of Europe, than almost anyone initially imagined. Germany’s coalition government came apart just a day after the U.S. presidential election last November. As a result, … Read more