Eurotopics.net

Fifty years ago Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first men to set foot on the moon. Another twelve astronauts followed in their footsteps until 1972, when visits to the moon ceased. But recently interest in space travel has grown - not least because of China's successes in this area. What is the real motivation behind space exploration?

Despite the opposition of the US and threats of sanctions the delivery of Russian S-400 missiles to NATO member Turkey has begun. The arrival of the first aircraft carrying parts of the missile defence system was even broadcast on television on Friday. Commentators discuss the consequences of Turkey's purchase.

The result of the vote on Tuesday in Strasbourg which will determine whether Ursula von der Leyen becomes the next EU Commission President looks set to be very close. After hearings last week MEPs from all the different groups in the EU Parliament have confronted the German candidate with demands. She needs the votes of 376 MEPs to secure the post. What is at stake here?

France is moving to abolish funding from statutory health insurance for homeopathic remedies such as globuli by 2021 in a step by step approach. The reason: according to the French health authorities, there is insufficient scientific evidence for the efficacy of homeopathy. Is this the right way to go?

In a move aimed at countering alcohol tourism to Latvia Estonia's new government lowered its alcohol tax by 25 percent as of July, repealing a tax hike passed three years ago. Latvia has responded with plans to introduce lower taxes on certain types of alcoholic beverages as of August. How can the dispute be resolved?