AfD Power Bid: Far-right AfD leaders Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla were re-elected at their Erfurt congress as tens of thousands protested outside and police clashed in places, with the party vowing to push for power after 2029. Foreign Policy & Security: Germany’s foreign minister said Iran should ultimately pay for mine-clearing in the Strait of Hormuz, while stressing any Bundeswehr role would need a clear legal mandate and secure conditions. Ukraine War Fallout: A German AfD member, Noah Krieger (Murat Dadayev), has joined the Russian army, prompting Lower Saxony party expulsion proceedings. Defense Industry: Reuters reports Canada has picked Germany’s TKMS to build 12 new submarines, a decision tied to NATO spending pressure. Energy Grid Upgrade: A pilot in Thuringia using a medium-voltage series regulator aims to let Germany integrate about 260% more solar capacity without immediate grid expansion. Economy & Markets: Euro-zone investor morale jumped in July, with Germany singled out for improved expectations after reform announcements. Business & Industry: Continental will build its first company-owned wind farm near its Korbach tire plant, cutting exposure to volatile energy prices. Sports & Culture: Jürgen Klopp confirmed talks with the German football federation after Julian Nagelsmann’s World Cup exit, while Munich’s film festival handed its top co-producer prize to “Strange River.”