Eurotopics.net

Seventy-eight people have been confirmed dead so far after a boat sank off the southwest coast of Greece, although the real death toll is likely to be significantly higher. More than 400 migrants were reportedly crowded onto the boat, which was headed for Italy according to the Greek authorities. So far 104 have been pulled out alive. Commentators again stress the responsibility of the European states.

The German Federal Government presented the country's first National Security Strategy on Wednesday. The product of 15 months of negotiations, the document aims to address and interlink all internal and external threats to Germany's security and thus make it easier for the country to combat crises. What are its chances of success?

The final result of the early parliamentary elections in Montenegro has not yet been announced but a victory for the new movement Europe Now seems likely, which would mean a change of government. Founded by former finance minister Milojko Spajić, Europe Now has secured 26 percent of the vote according to the latest projections. Commentators are divided over what this means for Montenegro's pro-Western course.

Romanian teachers have ended their wage strike which lasted several weeks. The government presented a new offer on the weekend: as of 1 June, all school employees are to receive a wage increase of 25 percent on average, with further hikes to follow in 2024. If the promises are not implemented the teachers will strike again, their unions say.

Rome has ordered a day of national mourning to mark the death of former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi. Around 20,000 supporters are expected to attend the funeral service in Milan. The 86-year-old leader of the right-wing Forza Italia party, building contractor and media mogul was one of the richest men in Italy. He was put under investigation several times for tax evasion, corruption and links to the Mafia. The obituaries in Europe's press are ambivalent.