Eurotopics.net

With tractors blocking access to motorways, the VW plant in Emden and city centres, the farmer protests in Germany against the coalition government's plans to cut subsidies are in full swing. The main bone of contention is cuts to agricultural diesel subsidies. Commentators discuss the tense situation and the involvement of far-right groups.

French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne has resigned, paving the way for a government reshuffle. The favourite to succeed her is Education Minister Gabriel Attal. The reconfiguration is seen as a consequence of the recent difficulties of the government camp, which does not have an absolute majority, in pushing through legislative proposals such as the draft law on migration. What does this mean for the country and President Emmanuel Macron?

Taiwan will hold parliamentary and presidential elections on Saturday, amid growing pressure from China. The ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) with Vice President Lai Ching-te as its candidate is ahead in the polls, but its lead is shrinking. The largest opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), advocates a more conciliatory approach towards Beijing. The Taiwan People's Party (TPP) seeks a middle course.