Eurotopics.net

The Russo-Georgian War began 15 years ago, on 8 August 2008. Russia used the long-simmering conflict over the breakaway regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia - which formally belong to Georgia - to attack Georgia and permanently secure an increased military presence in the region. But Russia wields great influence far beyond this in Georgia today, commentators emphasise.

The Italian government has announced a hefty 40 percent windfall tax for banks. The government hopes to raise "several billion" euros to ease the burden on citizens with the move, said Matteo Salvini, deputy prime minister and leader of the Lega party. Europe's press takes stock.

A fierce controversy has flared up in Cyprus after Suleiman Ulutsai - the elected mayor in the occupied city of Famagusta - was invited to an anti-occupation event in the neighbouring town of Deryneia. After protests from Cypriot Greek parties and other public voices, Ulutsai cancelled his participation at the event, which takes place on the anniversary of the conquest of Famagusta by the Turkish army in 1974.

The coup plotters in Niger have let an ultimatum from the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) to reinstate democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum by Sunday and reverse the dissolution of constitutional institutions elapse. The junta has closed the country's airspace instead. Will Ecowas now go ahead with its threat of military intervention?

A Russian court extended opposition politician Alexei Navalny's prison sentence on Friday. The 47-year-old has already been behind bars for two years and has now been sentenced to 19 years in prison on charges of extremism. Commentators shed light on the background and goals of the sentence.