Eurotopics.net

Tensions are escalating between Spain and Algeria. The Algerian Professional Association of Banks has announced a ban on all imports from Spain as of Thursday. Before that the country had suspended a bilateral friendship treaty that had been in place for 20 years. The move comes after Prime Minister Sánchez proposed in March that Western Sahara be incorporated into Moroccan territory as an autonomous region. The Spanish press urges caution.

No apologies, barely a hint of self-criticism: for the first time since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, ex-German chancellor Angela Merkel has spoken at length about her former foreign policy. While in office she put consistent effort into preventing an escalation with Moscow, the CDU politician said in an interview on Tuesday evening. What do the media think of her stance?

The Russian navy has been blockading Black Sea ports including Ukrainian grain exports since the war against Ukraine began. Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov yesterday rejected any responsibility for the famines that are looming in several countries and put the onus on Kyiv. Once Ukraine has de-mined its ports Moscow is willing to open grain export corridors, he said. Europe's press is dubious.

The EU Parliament has voted to ban combustion engine cars and vans as of 2035. The new regulation has yet to be confirmed by the EU Commission and member states. Commentators say the move goes in the right direction.

An end to cable clutter is in sight: negotiators from the EU Parliament and member states have agreed on the introduction of standardised chargers for small and medium-sized portable devices in the EU. USB Type-C chargers will become the common charging point for all mobile phones, tablets and digital cameras. The new regulation is to apply as of mid-2024. A progressive decision?