Highlights:

• Chaos Unleashed by Trump Has Europeans Building Bridges With China — German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited Unitree Robotics in Hangzhou, where he observed humanoid robots and martial arts displays, signaling potential European engagement with China amid geopolitical shifts. Bloomberg Politics

• Russia Poised for Measured Rate Cut as Risks Cloud Outlook — The Bank of Russia is expected to cut rates by half a point to support a weakening economy while managing inflation risks tied to Middle East conflict. Bloomberg Economics

• Kim Jong Un and Daughter Unveil New Tank to Repel Drones — North Korea unveiled new battle tanks claimed to block missiles and drone attacks as Kim Jong Un called for increased military preparedness. Bloomberg Politics

• Sea-Skimming Craft Spotted as China Expands its Naval Ambitions — A mystery craft resembling a Soviet-era sea-skimming vehicle was spotted in China, suggesting Beijing may be experimenting with radar-avoidance technology. Bloomberg Politics

• Pentagon Seeks $200B From Congress For Iran Conflict — The Pentagon is requesting $200 billion in supplemental funding amid ongoing Iran operations and broader Middle East conflict implications. Bloomberg Politics

• Federal Workers Say They Are Demoralized and Less Engaged Under Trump — A Partnership for Public Service survey found federal employees report low morale and reduced confidence in job performance under Trump's workforce restructuring efforts. Bloomberg Politics

• The Debrief with Mario Parker: Japan Prime Minister, Rising Gas Prices — Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi met with President Trump amid the Iran War and rising global gas prices. Bloomberg Politics

• Panetta on War Costs, Hormuz Strategy, US Role — Former Defense Secretary Leon Panetta discusses supplemental funding needs, military supply replenishment, and potential sustained military presence including air and ground operations in Iran. Bloomberg Politics

• Sen. Peters on War Funding, DHS, Mullin Nomination — Sen. Gary Peters discusses the $200 billion Pentagon supplemental request, military readiness concerns, potential Iran escalation, and opposition to Markwayne Mullin's DHS nomination. Bloomberg Politics

• Nexstar's $3.5 Billion Tegna Deal Cleared by Justice Department — The DOJ unconditionally approved Nexstar Media Group's $3.5 billion acquisition of Tegna, creating the largest local TV station operator in the US. Bloomberg Politics