Eurotopics.net

In Alabama there will be only one exception to the ban on abortion in the future: if the life of the pregnant women is in acute danger. The Republican-led, deeply religious state of Alabama is set to introduce the most restrictive abortion law in the US - even post-rape abortion will become illegal. Journalists are appalled and speculate on how it came to this.

Since the beginning of the week people have been protesting against the construction of a new cathedral in a green area in central Yekatarinburg. So far the authorities have shown no sign of abandoning the project, which is being financed by influential sponsors. Russia's commentators describe a conflict between Church, state and wealthy patrons on one side, and spontaneously protesting citizens on the other.

In Burkino Faso two French soldiers were killed in an operation to free four tourists. Two French people were kidnapped in Benin last week and transported across the border. When special forces stormed the kidnappers' camp, they also encountered a South Korean and an American woman. France discusses whether the holidaymakers are to blame.

Manfred Weber is hoping to become the next President of the European Commission. The EPP, which is likely to become the strongest party in the new European Parliament, has selected him as its lead candidate. However, President Macron and a few other leaders are now questioning the lead candidate procedure and want to retain the right to nominate the president themselves. Commentators describe a struggle over posts with an uncertain outcome.

With their votes in the European elections next week, citizens can send a signal for the future of Europe. Will they vote for pro-European forces who want cooperation, or will they opt for those determined to dismantle the union? Europe's media discuss ways in which Europeans could benefit from the expanding community.