Eurotopics.net

The son of Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš has caused uproar by claiming he was abducted in Russia-annexed Crimea at his father's behest in a bid to prevent him from giving evidence in subsidy fraud investigation against the Babiš family. Is the Czech Republic slipping into a government crisis?

The European Commission has harshly criticised Romania on the rule of law and the fight against corruption in its latest Cooperation and Verification Mechanism report - just six weeks before the country is due to take over the rotating EU presidency. Neighbouring Bulgaria received a far more positive assessment. Commentators explain what is at stake for Romania and voice doubts that the country is currently in a position to lead Europe.

The UK and the EU have agreed on a draft Brexit deal. The agreement foresees a two-year transition period during which Britain would remain in the single market and customs union. A hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland would be avoided. Commentators speculate on whether May will be able to push the deal through her cabinet and parliament.

Angela Merkel has spoken out in favour of the creation of a European army before the European Parliament in Strasbourg, endorsing a proposal made by Emmanuel Macron a few days ago. However, she did not support the French president on the issue of the Eurozone budget. Europe's commentators analyse how well Merkel did in what could be her last speech before the EU's top legislative body.

The European Commission has harshly criticised Romania as regards the rule of law and the fight against corruption in its most recent Cooperation and Verification Mechanism report - just six weeks before the country is due to take over the rotating EU presidency. Neighbouring Bulgaria received a far more positive assessment. Brussels is using double standards, some commentators complain. Others look at ways to prevent the dismantling of democracy in Eastern Europe.