Eurotopics.net

Natural gas prices are currently at record levels across Europe. Whereas the long-term average fluctuates between 15 and 20 euros per megawatt hour, the current rate is 65 euros, a threefold increase within a few months. Commentators voice concern about winter heating costs and the future of the industry.

The European Court of Justice has imposed a fine of 500,000 euros per day on Poland as long as it continues to mine lignite in Turów. The open-pit mine is located in the Polish-Czech-German border triangle and threatens to lower the groundwater level in the entire area. Following a complaint by the Czech Republic, the European Court of Justice ordered an immediate halt to the extraction operations in May. But is there still a chance that a compromise will be reached?

With a 45 percent share of the motor liability insurance market, City Insurance was one of the most important players in the Romanian insurance industry, but now it has gone bankrupt. National observers focus on the consequences for policyholders.

Two days after the end of the Duma elections, Putin's United Russia party fared better than forecasts had predicted. With almost all the ballots counted it has secured 343 out of 450 seats - the constitutional majority. Voter turnout was at 48 percent. Hardly anyone in Europe's press believes that this victory was a clean one.

The new military alliance between the US, the UK and Australia continues to fuel tensions and outrage. Under the deal Australia will acquire nuclear-powered submarines from the US and scrap a contract for the purchase of French submarines. While some commentators see partners recklessly snubbed, others hail the move as a long overdue joining of forces against Chinese influence.