Eurotopics.net

Concerns about the spread of mutated virus variants from the UK and South Africa are facing policy-makers with challenging decisions. The EU wants to avoid general border closures like those imposed during the first wave of the pandemic, but many countries are now introducing stringent border controls, flight bans and new quarantine rules at their own initiative. Commentators examine the options.

In most European countries coronavirus vaccination programmes are now in full swing - as far as supplies allow. Priority is mostly being given to the elderly, nursing home residents and system-relevant occupational groups - with slight variations from country to country. But almost everywhere there have been cases of people in privileged positions flouting the rules to get vaccinated quicker. Commentators vent their fury.

In view of delivery problems with the vaccines ordered by the EU, the press is increasingly discussing whether products from Russia and China could be a viable alternative. Hungary has now purchased two million doses of Sputnik V, while Turkey opted for the Chinese Coronavac a while ago. Prague is also considering acquiring the Russian jab. The Czech press is divided.

The US and Russia have extended the New Start treaty until 2026. The treaty places limits on the nuclear arsenals of the two countries, which own around 90 percent of the world's nuclear weapons. US President Joe Biden described the treaty as an "anchor of strategic stability". Europe's press also welcomes the agreement - but not without certain reservations.

Abortions in Poland will in future only be legal if the women's health is at risk or if the pregnancy resulted from a crime. After the Supreme Court gave the green light for the government to tighten the law in October, it came into effect on Wednesday with its publication in the country's official gazette. The news has sparked protests in many cities.