Merz says North Korea threatening Europe's freedom

Key Points:

• German Chancellor Friedrich Merz accused North Korea of threatening Europe's freedom by sending soldiers to fight for Russia in Ukraine, highlighting the security risks posed by North Korea-Russia military cooperation.
• Merz and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung agreed to deepen strategic partnership, including enhanced security and military cooperation, during Merz's visit to Seoul.
• German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, visiting China, called for fair trade practices, reduced economic imbalances, and urged China to help end the war in Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of a rules-based international order.
• Volkswagen reported a third-quarter loss of €5.8 billion due to fierce competition from China, challenges in transitioning to electric vehicles, and declining demand, leading to plans for significant job cuts and factory closures in Germany.
• An eight-year-old girl was seriously injured in a wolf attack at a wildlife park in Brandenburg, Germany; authorities are investigating the circumstances, including the presence of a staff member in the enclosure during the incident.