Eurotopics.net

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has unveiled a package of measures aimed at making Europe climate neutral by 2050. The plan foresees the EU spending a trillion euros on its 'Green Deal' by 2030 and includes a CO2 tax on imports produced under conditions that don't conform to EU climate standards. Commentators in Northern, Eastern and Central Europe voice their concerns - for very different reasons.

The US has initiated sanctions against the construction of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline. Companies whose vessels are installing the last few kilometres of the Baltic Sea pipeline face sanctions such as bans on entering the US for their managers and the blocking of financial transactions. Is this just a cheap attempt to eliminate the competition on the gas market?

In a surprise move, Russian TV channel TNT included the Ukrainian comedy series 'Servant of the People' in its programme. In the show, current Ukrainian President Zelensky plays a thoroughly honourable Ukrainian president. After the first episode, however, the broadcaster announced that the series would be pulled from its programme and only available for streaming. Russian commentators are having a field day.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen yesterday unveiled a package of measures aimed at making Europe climate neutral by 2050. The plan foresees the EU spending a trillion euros on its 'Green Deal' by 2030 and includes a CO2 tax on imports produced under conditions that don't conform to EU climate standards. Europe's press debates whether the plan is worth the costs it entails.

In the wake of massive protests, French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe has presented a watered-down version of the fiercely criticised plans to reform the country's retirement system. For now, the retirement age is to remain at 62 years, a 1,000-euro minimum pension will be introduced, and a standardised system is to replace the multiple special plans. The media are divided over whether this will calm the people's anger.