German tensions over migration policy continue +++ First lady Trump opposes immigration policy +++ Duque wins in Colombia

19. Juli 2018, 02:00

German tensions over migration policy continue

In Germany the leaderships of chancellor Angela Merkel’s CDU and of its sister party the Bavarian-based CSU are meeting separately as their dispute over migration policy continues. The CSU has backed interior minister Horst Seehofer, who is from the party, over his insistence that migrants should be rejected at the border if they have already registered in another European Union country. Seehofer has reportedly said he wants a gradual implementation of his plan, suggesting a possible compromise with Merkel who says an EU wide solution must be agreed. There are concerns the dispute could bring down the government.

First lady Trump opposes immigration policy

The US first lady Melania Trump has expressed her concern over president Trump’s immigration policy, saying she “hates” to see the separation of children from families suspected of illegally crossing the border from Mexico. Former first lady Laura Bush has also spoken out against Trump’s zero tolerance policy calling it “cruel” and “immoral”. US officials say nearly 2,000 children have been separated from adults at the border over a six week period.

Duque wins in Colombia

Colombia’s presidential election has been won by conservative Iván Duque, who opposes the peace deal signed with the Farc rebel group two years ago. Duque says he wants the deal renegotiated but at his victory rally in Bogota pledged to unite the country: “With humility and honour I tell the Colombian people that I give all my energies to unite our country. No more division.” Farc leader Rodrigo Londono has congratulated Duque on his victory and said the holding of a peaceful election showed the peace process is working.

Taliban reject truce extension

The Taliban in Afghanistan have resumed attacks on government forces after refusing to extend a three-day ceasefire agreed over the Muslim festival of Eid. Thousands of Taliban fighters were welcomed into major cities during the truce with scenes of militants and soldiers embracing.

Van hits Dutch festival goers

Authorities in the Netherlands say the driver of a vehicle that hit several people at a camp site near a music festival in Limburg, killing one and seriously injuring three others has turned himself in, in Amsterdam. They say the suspect is a 34 year old Dutch citizen.

Audi CEO arrested

German authorities have arrested the CEO of Volkswagen's Audi division, Rupert Stadler, over the diesel emissions scandal. Prosecutors said he was taken into custody because he could tamper with evidence.

The weather

Changeable and windy, sunnier in the south and east. Rain showers north of the Alps. Top temperatures 18 to 28 degrees.

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