On Friday, July 17, 2026, French and German ministers convened in western Germany to discuss strengthening security cooperation, defense, and economic policies. French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized the need for closer coordination on key issues including Ukraine, artificial intelligence, industry, and energy. Macron stated that Paris and Berlin aim to "accelerate Europe's strategic renewal and work more closely together on key international issues," highlighting a recent "genuine Franco-German rapprochement on the European agenda."

Concurrently, the Higher Regional Court in Dresden is expected to deliver its verdict in the case of Susann E., a 45-year-old woman accused of supporting Germany’s far-right National Socialist Underground (NSU) terrorist group. Prosecutors have requested a four-year prison sentence, alleging that Susann E. aided convicted NSU member Beate Zschäpe by allowing her to use her identity while Zschäpe lived underground in Zwickau, Saxony. The court spokesperson confirmed charges of supporting a terrorist organization and aiding and abetting aggravated extortion.

This development comes amid ongoing efforts by Berlin and Paris to deepen bilateral cooperation on security matters and other strategic priorities.

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