Israel began carrying out air strikes in the Gaza Strip again on Tuesday night. More than 400 people have been killed so far, according to Palestinian sources. The ceasefire that has been in place since January was supposed to have entered a second, extended phase, but Israel would only agree to this if Hamas released all remaining hostages, disarmed and relinquished control of the Gaza Strip, which it has refused to do.

The British government has announced massive cuts to welfare with a view to reducing spiralling government spending on benefits for people with long-term illnesses and limited working capacity, and also increasing incentives to work. The national press voices both understanding and harsh criticism.

The second phone call between US President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin since Trump took office is scheduled for today, Tuesday. The main topic will be the US-Ukrainian proposal for a ceasefire, initially planned to last 30 days. Commentators assess the various elements of a potential agreement and the challenges facing Europe and Ukraine.

With its US partnership on the rocks, the EU is looking for new ways to bolster its defence. One option is to involve Turkey, with its strong army and arms industry. Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte has reportedly suggested that EU member states seek closer cooperation with Erdoğan. Turkey's strong man, for his part, has repeatedly stressed the 'strategic priority' of Turkey joining the EU. Is a major deal in the pipeline?

Donald Trump has issued a presidential order stipulating massive cuts to Voice of America, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and other US international broadcasters. According to media reports, around 1,300 employees have already been placed on administrative leave. Since the Cold War, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty has played a key role as an independent voice in autocracies and dictatorships worldwide. Commentators discuss how to respond.

More than 100,000 demonstrators marched against corruption under President Aleksandar Vučić in Belgrade on Saturday. Observers talk of this being the biggest popular rally since the fall of Slobodan Milošević 25 years ago. The months-long unrest was triggered by the fatal collapse of a roof at Novi Sad train station, which has been blamed on shoddy construction and cronyism. Europe's press chimes in.