Eurotopics.net

In its final report, a commission of experts appointed by Defence Minister Klaudia Tanner has called for Austria to extend its military service, which at six months is currently the shortest compulsory military service in Europe. Of three models put forward, the commission has recommended eight months of basic military service plus two months of subsequent training. The decision now rests with the politicians.

A deadly train crash occurred in the Spanish region of Andalusia on Sunday when the last few carriages of a high-speed train derailed and were hit by an oncoming train. Forty-two fatalities have been reported so far. The tragedy is also a serious blow to Spain's image as a high-tech railway nation. The national press discusses the failures and the behaviour of politicians.

The World Economic Forum, which brings together leading figures from business, politics and science, is taking place this week at the Swiss resort of Davos. This year's motto is "Spirit of Dialogue". Attention is focused on US President Donald Trump, who is due to arrive on Wednesday and, according to media reports, plans to discuss the peace plan with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the sidelines of the summit.