Coverage focused on two major developments: Putin's unexpected openness to direct Ukraine talks after two years of refusal, and the devastating economic impact of Trump's tariff policies. By mid-morning, multiple outlets reported Putin was willing to negotiate directly with Ukraine, with afternoon coverage suggesting he may have offered Trump a "freeze-in-place" ceasefire deal.

Economic reporting dominated as markets reacted negatively to Trump's tariffs, creating a "zoll-shock" that stagnated the German economy. China's attempts to redirect US-bound exports to Europe generated anxieties about market flooding.

Pope Francis' death continued as a major story, with funeral arrangements announced and the Vatican publishing his testament and open-casket photos. Succession speculation intensified with African cardinals emerging as frontrunners.

Domestic politics featured AfD reaching record-high polling at 26%, while controversy grew around plans to exclude the party from intelligence oversight committees.