Merkel says vaccines could arrive before Christmas

Merkel also reiterated that Germany will probably have to stick with measures to dampen the coronavirus pandemic into January.

Merkel agreed with leaders of Germany's 16 federal states late on Wednesday (November 25) to extend and tighten the coronavirus lockdown until Dec. 20, but ease rules over the Christmas holidays to let families and friends celebrate together.

Merkel said the increase in coronavirus cases was still much too high and the number of deaths a reason for concern.