What is important today
Millions of people forgo social benefits. Many do not claim social benefits, although they are entitled to them. This applies to the basic state security, nursing aids, the child allowance for low earners or the housing benefit. This is shown by an analysis of various scientific studies. Verena Bentele, president of the social association VdK, says the SZ: “The bureaucratic hurdles are very high.” To the article (SZ Plus)
EU corruption scandal: Two other MPs targeted by investigators. The Belgian judiciary is demanding the lifting of the immunity of two MEPs – apparently the Social Democrats Tarabella and Cozzolino. They are suspected of having received bribes from Qatar, which they deny. Go to Article
Official doctors call for EU-wide testing for travelers from China. In view of the current wave of corona infections in the People’s Republic, doctors are pushing for a uniform protection concept. Anyone who has become infected should have to go into isolation. Go to Article
Darts World Cup: Gabriel Clemens’ final dream burst The Saarlander lost in the semifinals against last year’s finalist Michael Smith. Nevertheless, he can book the tournament as a success. He moves up into the top 20 players in the world category. Go to Article
Gladbach’s goalkeeper could switch to Munich. The German soccer record champion FC Bayern is still finding it difficult to find a regular goalkeeper for the second half of the season. But the Swiss Yann Sommer has apparently made a specific change request in Mönchengladbach. To the article (SZ Plus)
Everything about the war in Ukraine and the energy crisis
Kramatorsk defies destruction. For months, people in the Ukrainian city have been living with the certainty that it could be over at any time. Nevertheless, many remain. A visit to those who don’t give up. To the article (SZ Plus)
Selensky warns against attrition. The repeated drone strikes are intended to wear down Ukraine’s air defenses, according to the country’s president. The EU-Ukraine summit is scheduled to take place in Kyiv on February 3. According to Ukrainian information, the number of torture sites discovered near Kharkiv has risen to 25. Go to the live blog on the war
Wissing wants to let experts decide on atomic transit times. The transport minister says that there is no need for “dogmatism” but for a “technical answer” to the question of an affordable energy supply. To the live blog on the energy crisis