Eurotopics.net

The Eurozone finance ministers decided on Thursday to pay a final installment to Greece, freeing up the country to act independently on the lending markets as of August. In addition deadlines on debt repayment have been pushed back ten years. Discussing the country's tentative return to economic growth commentators praise Athens and criticise its money lenders.

A speech given by Angela Merkel to commemorate the German victims of mass expulsions after WWII and to mark World Refugee Day has triggered harsh reactions from the Czech Republic. In her speech Merkel had said that there was no "moral or political justification" for expulsions. Some commentators show understanding for the indignant reaction from politicians in Prague. Others see the whole affair as a storm in a teacup.

Russia has got off to a better start than any other World Cup host in the tournament. Its cities were filled with jubilant fans and motorcades after the Russian team's second victory in its match against Egypt. But commentators suspect the celebratory mood about the team's victories will soon give way to political discontent.

The United States has terminated its membership of the UN Human Rights Council. Washington has justified its decision by saying that the Council is prejudiced - especially against Israel. Some commentators criticise the decision as a further step towards American isolation, while others show understanding for the move.

With immediate effect people in Hungary can be sent to prison if they "assist illegal migration" by, for example, helping migrants who do not have refugee status to apply for asylum. In addition, a constitutional amendment stipulating that in future no "foreign populations" should be allowed to settle in Hungary was passed with only five votes against. Commentators, not only in Hungary, are appalled.