Eurotopics.net

After Eastern European farmers in particular protested against cheap grain from Ukraine last summer, farmers are now blockading motorways in Germany, France and other countries in protest at high fuel prices. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has initiated a "strategic dialogue" on the future of the agricultural sector. Europe's press looks at the causes and eyes the future with apprehension.

In October, the German government rejected a request by Kyiv submitted in May 2023 to supply it with Taurus cruise missiles on the grounds that the missiles' range was too long. But according to German newspaper Handelsblatt, Olaf Scholz is now considering an offer from the UK which has been on the table for several weeks: Germany could supply Taurus missiles to Nato partners who would then export similar weapons systems to Ukraine in exchange. A good idea?

The Turkish parliament on Tuesday voted clearly in favour of Sweden joining Nato. For eighteen months Turkey opposed the move, after also blocking Finland's membership for a long time. Once President Erdoğan has signed, only Hungary's approval will still be pending. What does this mean for the three countries - and the transatlantic alliance?