Eurotopics.net

Even after the row between the EU and Astrazeneca has for the most part been settled, criticism of Europe's approach to acquiring vaccines continues. Commission President von der Leyen has admitted mistakes, but defended the common procurement strategy. The commentaries in Europe's press reflect the controversy.

Turkey's President Erdoğan presented a new national space programme on Tuesday. Turks will fly to the moon for the Republic's hundredth birthday in 2023, he said.

Companies on the brink of bankruptcy, citizens on the verge of exhaustion: the strict pandemic regulations that have been in place for months are taking a serious toll and prompting urgent calls for a relaxing of the measures, especially in areas where infection rates are falling. But politicians are hesitant - and often make decisions behind closed doors. Journalists discuss whether the frustration is justified or whether people should show more understanding.

In Poland, dozens of media companies suspended publication on Wednesday. Newspapers left their front pages blank or published an open letter entitled "Media Without Choice". The protest actions were triggered by a new law that introduces taxes on media advertising and, according to the strikers, aims to stifle the independent press. Most commentators are also alarmed by the legislation.