Eurotopics.net

In the ongoing trade dispute with the US the EU has raised import tariffs for a number of US goods. Tariffs for products like whisky, jeans and motorbikes were increased in retaliation for Donald Trump's import duties on European steel and aluminium products. Commentators support the move, even voicing hopes that the row will ultimately leave the EU in a better position.

Liviu Dragnea, head of Romania's Social Democratic Party (PSD) and of the Chamber of Deputies, is refusing to step down despite having been sentenced last week in the first instance for abuse of power. Thousands once again took to the streets in protest against the dismantling of the rule of law in Romania. But commentators doubt that the public outcry will make any difference - particularly as the EU is remaining silent.

According to Turkey's election authority, head of state Recep Tayipp Erdoğan has already won an absolute majority in the first round of the Turkish presidential election. Commentators discuss what the introduction of the presidential system will mean for Turkey.

Under pressure from her own government Chancellor Merkel tried to find a pan-European solution to the migration issue at a meeting of 16 EU member states in Brussels on the weekend. The goal was to reach an agreement with individual countries on taking back migrants, ahead of the EU summit at the end of June. Commentators say Germany is writing the script for Europe's downfall.