The world's biggest asset manager Blackrock has announced that it is withdrawing from the climate group Net Zero Asset Managers Initiative (NZAMI). The initiative brings together investment managers who are committed to the goal of a climate-neutral economy by 2050 and invest in 'green' industries. Commentators discuss whether this is symptomatic of a new global trend.
The opposition in the Slovakian parliament tried to table a motion of no confidence against Prime Minister Robert Fico on Tuesday, but he prevented this by presenting an intelligence report accusing the opposition of planning a "Maidan", a coup along the lines of the 2014 protests in Ukraine, to seize power.
The initial six-week ceasefire between Israel and Hamas came into force on Sunday. The terrorist organisation handed over three Israeli hostages, with 95 reportedly still being held. On 7 October 2023, Hamas abducted around 250 hostages in total. As agreed, Israel released 90 Palestinian prisoners in exchange. Europe's commentators voice relief, but also scepticism.
Shortly after his inauguration, US President Donald Trump signed a slew of executive orders in front of his supporters. With some 80 orders, he rescinded many measures introduced by his predecessor Joe Biden and announced more to come. Among other things, he plans to fire numerous government employees, seal off the border with Mexico and pardon the Capitol attackers. Commentators see major repercussions.
Elon Musk, billionaire and close confidant of US President Donald Trump, has caused a stir by making a gesture that closely resembles the Nazi salute. Speaking to supporters at the Capitol One Arena in Washington after Trump's swearing-in ceremony on Monday, Musk slapped his right hand on his heart and then extended his arm. European commentators offer explanations for how the gesture is to be understood.