Faced with the potential threat from Russia and decreased support from the US, Europe is once again discussing boosting its defence spending. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has proposed softening the EU debt rules for this purpose and Denmark has announced that it will increase its defence spending to more than three percent of its GDP. Most commentators welcome the initiative.
At a meeting of their foreign ministers in the Saudi capital Riyadh, the US and Russia have agreed on initial steps in the direction of a rapprochement, with the resumption of ambassadorial relations and preparations for a summit meeting between presidents Trump and Putin. Negotiators are to seek ways to end to the war in Ukraine and increase economic cooperation. Europe's press analyses the signals.
Looking back at the 61st Munich Security Conference, European media are homing in on the speech given by JD Vance. In it the US Vice President said that the greatest danger for Europe comes not from Russia or China but from within, accusing Europe of turning its back on its most fundamental values. What is happening with the transatlantic relationship?
Beyond hectic discussions about the disruptive measures announced almost daily by the Trump administration, European media take stock of the potential far-reaching, longer-term transformations that have taken place since the change of government in the US. Commentators speculate on how the country and society will develop during Trump's second term as president.
Sunday marked the first anniversary of Alexei Navalny's death. The best-known and probably most scathing opponent of Vladimir Putin's regime died suddenly under unclear circumstances after surviving a poison attack and three years of extremely harsh conditions in a remote Arctic penal colony. The media lament the loss of the Russian opposition's figurehead.