Resistance to Nazi terror celebrated

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadefull is on a visit to Africa on Monday.

The first destination will be Mauritania, followed by Nigeria and then South Africa.

“Especially in times of global geopolitical turmoil, credible cooperation with African partners is vital. For Germany and Europe, this is more than the obvious interest in a stable and prosperous neighboring continent,” Wadful said in comments before leaving.

“It’s about what we have to offer each other,” Wadeful said. “That’s why I’m visiting major African countries for the third time in just a few months.”

The German diplomat is also accompanied by a business delegation. The visit also aims to identify opportunities for German companies and promote private investment to support economic growth.

Commemoration events will be held in Berlin to remember those who stood up against Nationalist Socialist terror, with ceremonies being held at historical sites of the failed coup of 20 July 1944.

82 years ago today, Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg attempted to assassinate Adolf Hitler by planting a bomb at the Wolf’s Lair headquarters. The device exploded, but failed to kill the Nazi leader.

Von Stauffenberg and three others involved in the plot to assassinate Hitler were summarily executed in the courtyard of the Bendler Block complex, the former headquarters of the Army High Command.

The site is one of several places of historical significance associated with the daring attempt on Hitler’s life. Ceremonies are held each year and wreaths are laid in Berlin to commemorate those who died protesting the Nationalist Socialist reign of terror.

One of the sites is the Plötzensee Memorial Center complex, which served as a prison and place of execution under the Nazi regime from 1933 to 1945. According to the German government, 2,800 people were hanged there, including many opponents of the Nazis.

In 1953, a monument was erected in the Bendler Block “to keep alive the memory of the men and women who took part in the resistance to National Socialism and to assist Germans in the necessary process of coming to terms with this part of their history.” The Domestic Protocol Office says on its website.

Good morning! From the DW newsroom here in Bonn.

Today, Germany is remembering those who stood up against the Nazi regime through commemoration events marking 82 years since the failed coup attempt in 1944.

Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg’s actions in “Operation Valkyrie” would result in his summary execution, but would also demonstrate how far some people were willing to go to remove Adolf Hitler.

Meanwhile, Germany’s top diplomat has left for Africa as Berlin looks to strengthen ties. Wadeful will visit Mauritania, Nigeria and South Africa on his whistle-stop tour.

Stay tuned for these stories and more as we bring you the latest from across Germany!