Eurotopics.net

In the dispute over the planned EU rule of law mechanism, Germany has negotiated a compromise with Hungary and Poland under which a declaration would be added stressing that member states' "national identity" will be respected. Viktor Orbán is already presenting this as a victory. If the compromise holds it will clear the way for the new EU budget and coronavirus recovery fund. Observers, however, are less than enthusiastic.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson travelled to Brussels on Wednesday to negotiate a Brexit deal with EU Commissioner Ursula von der Leyen in person. A joint dinner including scallops and turbot, however, failed to produce a result. If the UK and EU don't reach an agreement by December 31, they risk a no-deal Brexit. But the media have not given up all hope of a deal yet.

The Estonian government tightened its coronavirus measures on Wednesday, closing all schools and other public institutions. In the northeast of the country - which has one of the highest infection rates in Europe - all public activities are banned for the next three weeks, with one exception: churches will remain open throughout the country. The state press is baffled and dismayed.

Commentators are closely observing the phenomenon of growing anti-corruption movements in some countries of Southeastern Europe. These include the USR-Plus reform alliance in Romania and the protest movement in Bulgaria. In the Republic of Moldova Maia Sandu, who is fiercely committed to the fight against corruption, has been elected president. What factors are behind the recent success of this young opposition?

Many countries were keen to avoid the drastic measures of the spring in the second wave of the coronavirus pandemic. But it now seems clear that in many places the current measures are not sufficient to significantly reduce infection rates. Rebellious citizens, seemingly contradictory rules, and all this just before Christmas - Europe's commentators voice anger and frustration.