European Union

Space-related activities account for 10% of Europe’s annual output. While spending in the United States is still far ahead, innovative cooperation models and strong public commitment to space activities sustain the continent’s competitive edge on the world stage.

Brexit, trade wars, Iran: the heads of state and government of the G7 states failed to find a common stance on these issues at their meeting in Biarritz. French President Macron caused a sensation by receiving Iran's Foreign Minister Zarif on the fringes of the summit. In view of the paltry results commentators ask whether it's not time other states were included in the talks.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Macron still hope a solution can be found to prevent a no-deal Brexit. Macron, however, has shown little willingness to compromise regarding the backstop. How do things stand in the game of poker over Brexit?

In a bid to prevent the formation of a coalition between the Cinque Stelle and the Democratic party (PD) in Italy Lega leader Matteo Salvini is trying to gain the support of those within Five Star who are willing to continue cooperating with his party. But time is running out for him because President Giuseppe Mattarella expects a decision on who will govern the country by Wednesday. Commentators are appalled by the situation in Italy.

The fighting has intensified in the Syrian province of Idlib, which had been declared a de-escalation zone. Supported by Russia, Assad's army is advancing through the rebel-held territory towards the city of Khan Shaykhun, prompting a mass exodus from the area. Meanwhile tensions between Ankara and Moscow have escalated after a Turkish military convoy was hit in an airstrike.