Eurotopics.net

The first witnesses testified in the impeachment proceedings against Donald Trump on Wednesday. Their testimony supports the accusation that Trump pressured Ukraine to launch an investigation against Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden and his son. Commentators examine how both Republicans and Democrats could try to exploit the proceedings for PR purposes.

US President Donald Trump received Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan at the White House on Wednesday. Trump praised his Turkish counterpart saying: "I'm a big fan of the president." In view of numerous contentious issues, Turkish media question whether the meeting really has improved relations between the two countries.

The 30th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall was celebrated in Berlin, Germany and Europe last weekend. Commentators in Eastern and Western Europe examine what has become of the spirit of 1989.

Venice has been hit by record floods. On Tuesday night water levels in the city rose to 187 cm above sea level - their highest since the floods of 1966. The problem of flooding in Venice is by no means new, Italian journalists complain, incensed by the state's inaction.

Turkey has started deporting people of European origin who allegedly fought for the IS. In addition to seven Germans, eleven French and two Irish citizens are to be sent home. Ankara is just trying to blackmail the EU, some commentators comment angrily. Others say Europe should assume its responsibilities.