tagesschau 20:00 Uhr, 19.09.2026

Germany's coalition government has agreed to a temporary fuel tax cut of 17 cents per liter, set to take effect October 1, as part of a broader package to address soaring gasoline prices. The federal and state governments will each cover half of the expected €2.5 billion in lost tax revenue. Meanwhile, a separate agreement is expected next week between Denmark, Greenland, and the United States, granting the U.S. permanent control over Greenland's security — a deal that would resolve months of tension over President Trump's repeated demands for the territory.

The Fuel Tax Cut: A Quick Fix With Known Limits

The 17-cent-per-liter reduction is designed to provide immediate relief at the pump, though the government acknowledges it won't be felt until October 1. Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced the deal on social media, thanking the states and parliament for acting quickly. Economics professor Südecom, who advises the finance ministry, defended the measure: "It doesn't solve the problem, completely clear. But at least it offers short-term relief. And above all it works fast and it will reach the gas stations quickly."