"The West" as we knew it no longer seems to exist: the recent vote in the UN Security Council, US Vice President JD Vance's speech in Munich, new tariffs and the revival of Russian-American relations all demonstrate how the US is transforming its foreign policy under President Trump. The media assess the consequences for Europe – and its options for new partners.

Ukraine and the United States may sign a framework agreement on the joint development and export of Ukrainian mineral resources such as oil, gas, uranium, coal and rare earths this Friday. According to Volodymyr Zelensky, who is visiting Washington today, the deal doesn't include US security guarantees. The media weigh up the pros, cons and motives of both sides.

The dispute over the annulled presidential election continues in Romania. Călin Georgescu, the right-wing populist who came first in the cancelled first round, has been detained and questioned. Criminal proceedings launched against him include charges of election campaign irregularities, plans to attack the constitutional order and links to the Wagner Russian mercenary group.

On the second anniversary of the Tempi train crash, a general strike will take place across Greece on Friday. Trade unions, members of the opposition and relatives are demanding justice for the 57 victims and consequences for those responsible. Many see the causes of the accident and the inadequate investigation as a symptom of a corrupt state rendered dysfunctional by austerity measures and privatisation.

Governments across Europe are looking for ways to boost their defence and security spending. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has proposed relaxing the EU's debt rules, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced plans to increase his country's defence budget to 2.5 percent of GDP by 2027. Europe's media question whether Europe's leaders are setting the right priorities for the long term.

The AfD, parts of which Germany's Office for the Protection of the Constitution has classified as "definitely right-wing extremist", has emerged from the German federal election as the second strongest party, having secured 20.8 percent of the vote. In the states of the former East Germany it even came first. Europe's press analyses the results and seeks reasons for the weakening of the political centre.