Eurotopics.net

Tensions eased in the row between the EU and Astrazeneca over the weekend. The vaccine manufacturer announced that it would deliver several million more doses to the EU by the end of March, albeit only half of the amount originally promised. Commentators lambaste the EU's performance in this crucial matter.

Small investors have caused billions in losses for US hedge fund Melvin Capital. The fund had bet against computer games retailer Gamestop in a practice called shorting after the latter's share prices dropped in recent months. But in a coordinated hit against the hedge fund small investors joined forces and began snapping up Gamestop shares, causing the stock to soar. Europe's press says the case highlights the Janus-faced nature of the financial markets.

For the second weekend in a row, tens of thousands have demonstrated in Russia against Navalny's imprisonment, corruption and the absence of the rule of law. The security forces have cracked down brutally on the demonstrations, arresting over 5,000 people across the country. While some commentators believe the protests will fizzle out, others see signs of a turning point.

The European border agency Frontex is withdrawing from Hungary for the time being in reaction to Budapest's refusal to implement a ruling by the European Court of Justice (ECJ). The court ruled in December that Hungary's asylum system was illegal, citing unlawful practices such as pushbacks of refugees to Serbia. But according to commentators Frontex's initiative won't make much of a difference.

Tensions are easing in the row between the EU and Astrazeneca after the vaccine manufacturer announced that it would deliver more doses by the end of March, although this will still only be half of the amount originally envisaged. Commentators harshly criticise the EU's procurement policy and call for fundamental changes.