Eurotopics.net

Deutsche Bank and Commerzbank have ended six weeks of negotiations for a merger saying that the fusion carries too many risks and offers too few advantages. While some commentators voice fears about the consequences, others are relieved.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's Socialist Party looks set to win Spain's parliamentary elections on Sunday, although it will need a coalition partner to govern. The conservative Partido Popular and the liberal Ciudadanos want to topple Sánchez's government - if necessary with the support of the far-right Vox party. Commentators voice concern about the deeply polarised country.

With little prospect of an agreement for an orderly Brexit it seems increasingly likely that the British will take part in the European elections. Opinion polls predict a strong showing for The Brexit Party led by Nigel Farage - one of the most vocal Brexiteers. Can the opponents of Brexit still win the day?

Despite warnings from the European Commission the Romanian parliament has approved the controversial judicial reform which foresees shorter statutes of limitation for crimes of corruption. The opposition has pointed out that Liviu Dragnea, the leader of the ruling PSD who has already been convicted of corruption in the first instance, stands to benefit from the new legislation. What will be the repercussions of the decision?

On April 25, Italy commemorates its liberation from war and fascism in 1945. The day of celebration has many opponents on the right, and Interior Minister Salvini has now indirectly sided with them by snubbing events to mark the anniversary and choosing to inaugurate a police station in the former Mafia stronghold Corleone instead. Commentators condemn his behaviour.