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Poland has offered to send 28 Soviet-made fighter jets, which Ukrainian air force pilots already know how to fly, to Ukraine to help it defend itself against the Russian invaders. The MiG-29 jets were to be delivered to a US air base in Germany, repainted, and transferred to Ukraine. Washington has now rejected the scheme citing fears that Nato could be dragged into the war. Is this peacekeeping or a missed opportunity?

Talks between Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and his Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba are under way in Turkey today in the first meeting between high-ranking representatives of the two countries since the war began. In Europe's commentary columns expectations that the meeting will be fruitful remain low.

Punitive measures against Russia are not only cutting off Russians' access to Western products but in some cases also to education and cultural exchange. Many Russians who oppose Russia's course are having problems organising their departure from the country. The press discusses whether the sanctions are hitting their mark.

The presidential election is due to begin in four weeks in France. President Macron delayed announcing his candidacy until the last minute but the incumbent president is nonetheless ahead in the polls. This is likely one reason why he doesn't want to engage in a public debate with his eleven rivals.

Citizens proposed ways to improve health, fight climate change and protect the environment at a forum held in Warsaw on 7-9 January.

Source : © European Union, 2022 - EP