Eurotopics.net

In an interview with The Sun shortly before his state visit to Britain, US President Donald Trump has expressed his support for Boris Johnson in the latter's bid to become Theresa May's successor. And speaking with The Sunday Times he said that Britain should quit the EU with no deal if need be. Is Trump the right partner in these difficult times?

The conservative Nea Dimokratia party won in seven regions in the second round of Greece's local elections on Sunday. This means that conservative governors will head the local governments in 12 of the country's 13 regions. While some commentators celebrate the end of the Syriza government others warn the citizens to think carefully about whom they give their vote to.

As one of its first moves since coming to power the new Estonian government has decided to lower alcohol tax as of 1 July, repealing a tax hike passed three years ago. Commentators in Estonia and neighbouring countries discuss what the consequences will be for public health, tax policy and the economy.

A cruise ship rammed into a smaller vessel carrying more than 100 passengers on Sunday in Venice, injuring at least four people. The cruise ship MSC Opera apparently encountered a mechanical problem which caused the accident. For the press the incident once again shows how dangerous these huge ships are for the city of lagoons.

While Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini has received a boost through the victory of his right-wing nationalist Lega party in the EU elections, his coalition partner, the Five Star Movement, has suffered severe losses. Salvini is now threatening to dissolve the government unless his plans, especially for a flat tax, are approved. His muscle-flexing horrifies some critics and amuses others.