Eurotopics.net

Views of Russia, Ukraine and the war are different in Poland, the Baltic States, and also in Finland - given its long border with Russia - than in Western Europe. Commentators examine the impact of the past year on these countries.

Russia's war has led to major shifts in Europe. Dependence on Russian energy sources has been reduced and sanctions have drastically reduced economic ties with Russia. The issues of security and defence have moved sharply into focus - displacing climate protection and trade. The countries that are setting the tone have also changed.

After announcing a Chinese peace initiative for Ukraine in Munich, the country's top diplomat Wang Yi has travelled to Moscow to present the plan there. It is due to be officially revealed in detail on 24 February, one year after the Russian invasion began. The Russian foreign ministry has said it appreciated China's efforts. Ukraine said that its own peace plan had priority, but that it was open to ideas. The press focuses on Beijing's motives.

In February 2018 the contract killing of investigative journalist Ján Kuciak and his fiancée Martina Kušnírová shook Slovakia and led to massive protests, ushering in the fall of the government under populist Robert Fico, who was suspected of corruption, and a spirit of optimism. But five years on disillusionment has set in, commentators note.