The DFB women's title dream was shattered in dramatic fashion last night. To help you get started on your work, I recommend starting your day with our individual review of the match against Spain. You can find it here .
In addition, these five other topics from Germany and the world will keep you well informed for your Thursday.
This is what happened: The Federal Cabinet has introduced a new Defense Procurement Act that is intended to significantly accelerate the procurement of equipment for the Bundeswehr.
Why it's important: Federal Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (65, SPD) wants to make the Bundeswehr "war-ready" to counter the growing threat from Russia. The extremely slow and bureaucratic procurement process is considered the biggest hurdle on the way to achieving this.
Here's what's next: After the summer recess, the Bundestag will debate the proposed legislation. A further acceleration bill for infrastructure expansion is to follow in the fall, which will also allow for faster awarding of construction contracts for barracks.
This is what it's about: The expansion of fiber optic lines for the fixed network is progressing – but at very different speeds.
That's why it's important: Fast fiber optic cables are the backbone of digitalization. They will replace the previously dominant DSL technology in the coming years and facilitate the use of artificial intelligence, for example. Those who have them have an economic advantage.
This is how it continues: In many cases there is still a huge need to catch up – especially in rural areas.
This is what it's about: In order to shorten the long waiting times in psychotherapy, the statutory health insurance companies are demanding mandatory reporting of available treatment capacities and central allocation of appointments.
This is why it's important: Demand for psychotherapy has increased since the coronavirus pandemic. Those who don't receive treatment can suffer lasting harm and also affect those around them.
Here's what's going on: There's a political consensus that waiting times are too long. Whether and how to remedy this remains to be seen.
This is what happened: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky (47) signed a controversial law that places the country's two most important anti-corruption agencies under the control of the Prosecutor General's Office. Thousands of people protested in the streets.
This is why it's important: Without progress in combating corruption, both the country's desired EU accession and further billions in aid payments from Brussels are in jeopardy. EU funds were recently frozen because important reform milestones were not met.
Here's what's next: Against the backdrop of renewed protests, Zelenskyy announced a new law on the functioning of anti-corruption bodies. He promised that it would address all the protesters' concerns and ensure the independence of the anti-corruption authorities.
This is what it's about: Older people are particularly at risk of bicycle accidents on the road – sometimes with fatal consequences.
Background: Physical limitations associated with age, such as slower reaction times, are often the cause of accidents. Inadequate infrastructure also plays a role. In addition, older people are increasingly using e-bikes, which are more dangerous than regular bikes simply because of their higher speeds.
Here's what's next: Seniors can do a lot to be safer on their bikes. For example, by using aids like side mirrors.
Have a healthy and happy Thursday. See you tomorrow,
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