Labour Talks: IG Metall regional branches are pushing for a 5% pay rise for metal, electrical and auto workers, plus a “social component” for lower pay grades, with nationwide demands due Wednesday and talks starting in October. Politics & Security: Germany is preparing targeted limits on AfD access to classified intelligence if the party governs Saxony-Anhalt, aiming to prevent sensitive Russia/Ukraine material leaking. Elections Shock: AfD’s win in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania (38.2%) and CDU’s failure to clear 5% is raising alarm across Europe and adding pressure on Chancellor Merz. Air Safety: An F-16 crashed near US Spangdahlem air base in western Germany; the pilot ejected and was injured, with the cause under investigation. Defence Modernisation: Germany marked the rollout of its first F-35A in Fort Worth, a step toward fifth-generation Luftwaffe airpower. Archaeology: An amateur found Germany’s biggest Roman silver coin hoard—934 denarii—now displayed in Bonn. Energy & Trade: China urged Germany to avoid an EU-China trade war, while Azerbaijan and Germany discussed possible Azerbaijani gas supplies. Immigration: Germany published fast-track settlement permit conditions for certain highly skilled workers, including scientists and prominent teachers. Business: Sazerac agreed to buy spirits maker Berentzen Group, and UBS lifted its Eurozone inflation forecast citing higher energy and healthcare costs.