The far-right National Rally party led by Marine Le Pen finished top in European elections in France, final results showed Monday, dealing a symbolic blow, but not a knock-out punch, to pro-EU President Emmanuel Macron.

Le Pen's National Rally (RN) received 23.31 per cent of the vote, with Macron's centrist alliance trailing with 22.41 per cent.

The two groups will have the same number of seats in the European Parliament, 23, after Britain's expected departure from the EU.

Le Pen, who lost out to Macron in a bitter presidential contest in 2017, called for the head of state to dissolve the parliament and call new elections, a proposal that was immediately rejected by the government.

"It is up to the president of the republic to draw conclusions, he who put his presidential credit on the line in this vote in making it a referendum on his policies and even his personality," Le Pen said in a brief speech late Sunday.

But despite triumphalist comments from RN figures, the final results were a mixed picture for the 50-year-old Le Pen: her party ended up losing ground since European elections in 2014 when it finished top with 24.9 per cent.

In a first reaction after exit polls were released late on Sunday, an aide to Macron called them "respectable". Leading allies of the 41-year-old president sounded satisfied that the margin of defeat looked like it would be slender.

A second-place finish for the ruling Republic on the Move (LREM) party was a disappointment for Macron after he put his reputation on the line by campaigning, but it is a symbolic setback that aides said would have no bearing on his policies.

"The catastrophe that some people predicted for Macron has not taken place and the RN has a significant score, but not a spectacular one when you compare it to five years ago," analyst Zaki Laidi from the Cevipof political institute said.

'Time for action'

An aide to Macron, speaking to AFP on condition of anonymity, said that there would be "no change of line" and that he would intensify his planned reforms which include tax cuts for the middle classes and controversial changes to the pension and unemployment benefits system.

Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said the results confirmed the "redrawing" of French politics, which was evident in the presidential election in 2017 when France's traditional parties were eclipsed by Macron's new centrist movement and the far-right.

"The time is for action because the French people will judge us ultimately on one thing: results," Philippe said in a televised statement on Sunday.

He also said the government had "received a message about the ecological emergency" after France's main green party, EELV, looked set to finish third, with around 13 per cent of the vote compared with 8.9 per cent in 2014.

Macron had made no secret of the significance he attached to the results, telling regional French newspapers last week that the EU elections were the most important for four decades as the union faced an "existential threat".

He is a leading champion of further EU integration and is keen for further advances to link the economies, militaries and political systems of the bloc, which numbers 28 member states including Britain.

At home, the former investment banker started his five-year term as an energetic pro-business reformer intent on cutting unemployment and making France more entrepreneurial.

But for six months he has faced so-called "yellow vest" protesters who have blocked roads and demonstrated to denounce him as a "president of the rich" who has ignored the plight of the working poor and rural France.

Macron has since announced major tax cuts for the middle classes and a rise in the minimum wage.

Allies?

His influence and Le Pen's in the European Parliament will now depend on whether they can make alliances.

Le Pen has previously called for the formation of a "supergroup" of eurosceptic parties, but the hard-right ruling party in Poland -- PiS -- has shunned her because of her pro-Russian views, while Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban remains aloof.

"The gains for our allies in Europe and the emergence of new forces across the continent... open the way for the formation of a powerful group in the European Parliament," the RN's top campaigner, 23-year-old Jordan Bardella, told supporters on Sunday.

Macron meanwhile is in alliance with the ALDE centrist and liberal grouping which is seen as finishing third in the parliament behind the conservative PPE formation and the centre-left Socialists and Democrats (S&amp;D).

But the French president, who redrew French politics in 2017, is still hoping to forge a new broader alliance of pro-European which would bring together so-called "progressives."

"At the European level, the president is still manoeuvring to form a large progressive alliance, a&nbsp;force that will be essential in the new parliament," an aide said on condition of anonymity.

The far-right National Rally party led by Marine Le Pen finished top in European elections in France, final results showed Monday, dealing a symbolic blow, but not a knock-out punch, to pro-EU President Emmanuel Macron.

The far-right National Rally party led by Marine Le Pen finished top in European elections in France, final results showed Monday, dealing a symbolic blow, but not a knock-out punch, to pro-EU President Emmanuel Macron. Le Pen's National Rally (RN) received 23.31 per cent of the vote, with Macron's centrist alliance trailing with 22.41 per cent. The two groups will have the same number of seats in the European Parliament, 23, after Britain's expected departure from the EU. Le Pen, who lost out to Macron in a bitter presidential contest in 2017, called for the head of state to dissolve the parliament and call new elections, a proposal that was immediately rejected by the government. "It is up to the president of the republic to draw conclusions, he who put his presidential credit on the line in this vote in making it a referendum on his policies and even his personality," Le Pen said in a brief speech late Sunday. But despite triumphalist comments from RN figures, the final results were a mixed picture for the 50-year-old Le Pen: her party ended up losing ground since European elections in 2014 when it finished top with 24.9 per cent. In a first reaction after exit polls were released late on Sunday, an aide to Macron called them "respectable". Leading allies of the 41-year-old president sounded satisfied that the margin of defeat looked like it would be slender. A second-place finish for the ruling Republic on the Move (LREM) party was a disappointment for Macron after he put his reputation on the line by campaigning, but it is a symbolic setback that aides said would have no bearing on his policies. "The catastrophe that some people predicted for Macron has not taken place and the RN has a significant score, but not a spectacular one when you compare it to five years ago," analyst Zaki Laidi from the Cevipof political institute said. 'Time for action' An aide to Macron, speaking to AFP on condition of anonymity, said that there would be "no change of line" and that he would intensify his planned reforms which include tax cuts for the middle classes and controversial changes to the pension and unemployment benefits system. Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said the results confirmed the "redrawing" of French politics, which was evident in the presidential election in 2017 when France's traditional parties were eclipsed by Macron's new centrist movement and the far-right. "The time is for action because the French people will judge us ultimately on one thing: results," Philippe said in a televised statement on Sunday. He also said the government had "received a message about the ecological emergency" after France's main green party, EELV, looked set to finish third, with around 13 per cent of the vote compared with 8.9 per cent in 2014. Macron had made no secret of the significance he attached to the results, telling regional French newspapers last week that the EU elections were the most important for four decades as the union faced an "existential threat". He is a leading champion of further EU integration and is keen for further advances to link the economies, militaries and political systems of the bloc, which numbers 28 member states including Britain. At home, the former investment banker started his five-year term as an energetic pro-business reformer intent on cutting unemployment and making France more entrepreneurial. But for six months he has faced so-called "yellow vest" protesters who have blocked roads and demonstrated to denounce him as a "president of the rich" who has ignored the plight of the working poor and rural France. Macron has since announced major tax cuts for the middle classes and a rise in the minimum wage. Allies? His influence and Le Pen's in the European Parliament will now depend on whether they can make alliances. Le Pen has previously called for the formation of a "supergroup" of eurosceptic parties, but the hard-right ruling party in Poland -- PiS -- has shunned her because of her pro-Russian views, while Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban remains aloof. "The gains for our allies in Europe and the emergence of new forces across the continent... open the way for the formation of a powerful group in the European Parliament," the RN's top campaigner, 23-year-old Jordan Bardella, told supporters on Sunday. Macron meanwhile is in alliance with the ALDE centrist and liberal grouping which is seen as finishing third in the parliament behind the conservative PPE formation and the centre-left Socialists and Democrats (S&D). But the French president, who redrew French politics in 2017, is still hoping to forge a new broader alliance of pro-European which would bring together so-called "progressives." "At the European level, the president is still manoeuvring to form a large progressive alliance, a force that will be essential in the new parliament," an aide said on condition of anonymity.

Blow for President Emmanuel Macron as Le Pen tops European Union election in France

Tens of millions of Europeans will vote Sunday as 21 countries choose their representatives in a battle between the nationalist right and pro-EU forces to chart a course for the bloc.

Greece, Hungary, Bulgaria, Romania, Lithuania and Cyprus were the first to open their polling stations at 0400 GMT.

Seven EU member states have already voted, and provisional results will be released late on Sunday once the rest of the union has taken part in the European parliamentary election.

Eurosceptic parties opposed to the project of ever closer union hope to capture as many as a thirds of the seats in the 751-member Strasbourg assembly, disrupting the pro-integration consensus.

The far-right parties of Italian deputy PM Matteo Salvini and France's Marine Le Pen will lead this charge, and anti-EU ranks will be swelled by the Brexit Party of British populist Nigel Farage.

France's President Emmanuel Macron has taken it upon himself to act as a figurehead for the centrist and liberal parties hoping to shut the nationalists out of key EU jobs and decision-making.

"Once again Macron is daring us to challenge him. Well let's take him at his word: On May 26, we'll challenge him in the voting booth," Le Pen told a rally in France on Friday.

'Extremists are mobilising'

Meanwhile, the mainstream parties are vying between themselves for influence over the choice of a new generation of top European officials, including the powerful president of the European Commission.

And Brussels insiders are closely following the turnout figures, fearing that another drop in participation will undermine the credibility of the EU parliament as it seeks to establish its authority.

Britain and the Netherlands were first to vote, on Thursday, followed by Ireland and the Czech Republic on Friday and Slovakia, Malta and Latvia on Saturday, leaving the bulk of the 400 million eligible voters to join in on Sunday.

At the last EU election in 2014, Slovakia had the lowest turnout of any country, at less than 14 per cent, and centrist president Andrej Kiska is worried that the far-right is poised to profit.

"We see that extremists are mobilising, we see a lot their billboards and activities all over Slovakia. We can't let someone steal Europe from us. It's our Europe," Kiska told reporters.

But the right and the far-right have not had everything their own way so far.

In the Netherlands, the centre-left party of EU vice president Frans Timmermans won the most votes and added two seats to the Socialists and Democrats (S&amp;D) bloc in parliament, according to exit polls.

A day later, the S&amp;D's centre-right rival the European People's Party (EPP) was buoyed by exit polls suggesting that Prime Minister Leo Varadkar's pro-EU Fine Gael party was in the lead in Ireland.

Jobs fair

If Britain leaves the European Union on October 31, the latest deadline for Brexit, then its MEPs will not sit for long in the EU parliament but could still play a role in the scramble to hand out top jobs.

Thursday's votes from Britain won't be counted until after polls close in Italy, but Farage's Brexit Party appears on course to send a large delegation to a parliament its wants to abolish.

Macron is pinning his hopes on his Renaissance movement joining with the liberal ALDE voting bloc and other centrist groups to give impetus to his plans for deeper EU integration.

But much will depend on who gets the top jobs: the presidencies of the Council and the Commission, the speaker of parliament, the high representative for foreign policy and director of the European Central Bank.

The 29 EU leaders have been invited to a summit dinner on Tuesday to decide how to choose the nominees, and Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel is expected to back the lead EPP candidate Manfred Weber for the Commission.

Macron and some other leaders oppose both Weber, a German conservative MEP with no executive experience, and the idea that the parliament should get to choose one of its own for Brussels' prime post.

But whichever way the leaders' council leans, there will be no immediate decision. Instead, Council president Donald Tusk will take note of how the debate went and draft the nominations before a June 21 EU summit.

Tens of millions of Europeans will vote Sunday as 21 countries choose their representatives in a battle between the nationalist right and pro-EU forces to chart a course for the bloc.

Tens of millions of Europeans will vote Sunday as 21 countries choose their representatives in a battle between the nationalist right and pro-EU forces to chart a course for the bloc. Greece, Hungary, Bulgaria, Romania, Lithuania and Cyprus were the first to open their polling stations at 0400 GMT. Seven EU member states have already voted, and provisional results will be released late on Sunday once the rest of the union has taken part in the European parliamentary election. Eurosceptic parties opposed to the project of ever closer union hope to capture as many as a thirds of the seats in the 751-member Strasbourg assembly, disrupting the pro-integration consensus. The far-right parties of Italian deputy PM Matteo Salvini and France's Marine Le Pen will lead this charge, and anti-EU ranks will be swelled by the Brexit Party of British populist Nigel Farage. France's President Emmanuel Macron has taken it upon himself to act as a figurehead for the centrist and liberal parties hoping to shut the nationalists out of key EU jobs and decision-making. "Once again Macron is daring us to challenge him. Well let's take him at his word: On May 26, we'll challenge him in the voting booth," Le Pen told a rally in France on Friday. 'Extremists are mobilising' Meanwhile, the mainstream parties are vying between themselves for influence over the choice of a new generation of top European officials, including the powerful president of the European Commission. And Brussels insiders are closely following the turnout figures, fearing that another drop in participation will undermine the credibility of the EU parliament as it seeks to establish its authority. Britain and the Netherlands were first to vote, on Thursday, followed by Ireland and the Czech Republic on Friday and Slovakia, Malta and Latvia on Saturday, leaving the bulk of the 400 million eligible voters to join in on Sunday. At the last EU election in 2014, Slovakia had the lowest turnout of any country, at less than 14 per cent, and centrist president Andrej Kiska is worried that the far-right is poised to profit. "We see that extremists are mobilising, we see a lot their billboards and activities all over Slovakia. We can't let someone steal Europe from us. It's our Europe," Kiska told reporters. But the right and the far-right have not had everything their own way so far. In the Netherlands, the centre-left party of EU vice president Frans Timmermans won the most votes and added two seats to the Socialists and Democrats (S&D) bloc in parliament, according to exit polls. A day later, the S&D's centre-right rival the European People's Party (EPP) was buoyed by exit polls suggesting that Prime Minister Leo Varadkar's pro-EU Fine Gael party was in the lead in Ireland. Jobs fair If Britain leaves the European Union on October 31, the latest deadline for Brexit, then its MEPs will not sit for long in the EU parliament but could still play a role in the scramble to hand out top jobs. Thursday's votes from Britain won't be counted until after polls close in Italy, but Farage's Brexit Party appears on course to send a large delegation to a parliament its wants to abolish. Macron is pinning his hopes on his Renaissance movement joining with the liberal ALDE voting bloc and other centrist groups to give impetus to his plans for deeper EU integration. But much will depend on who gets the top jobs: the presidencies of the Council and the Commission, the speaker of parliament, the high representative for foreign policy and director of the European Central Bank. The 29 EU leaders have been invited to a summit dinner on Tuesday to decide how to choose the nominees, and Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel is expected to back the lead EPP candidate Manfred Weber for the Commission. Macron and some other leaders oppose both Weber, a German conservative MEP with no executive experience, and the idea that the parliament should get to choose one of its own for Brussels' prime post. But whichever way the leaders' council leans, there will be no immediate decision. Instead, Council president Donald Tusk will take note of how the debate went and draft the nominations before a June 21 EU summit.

Final votes cast as Europe chooses future course

Swedish teenage activist Greta Thunberg urged European politicians on Friday to focus on a climate crisis instead of "bickering", as children walked out of classes around the world to back her demands for urgent action to curb carbon emissions.

Thunberg, 16, said the threat of societal breakdown posed by runaway climate change should overshadow every other campaign issue in the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-elections-five-things-to-watch-220958"> European Union's parliamentary elections </a>this week.

"If the EU were to decide to seriously fight the climate crisis, it would mean a decisive global change. And the EU election should reasonably only be about this. But it isn't," Thunberg told thousands gathered in Kungstradgarden square in Stockholm's banking district.

By 2200 GMT, more than 1.8 million people in 2,350 cities across 125 countries had joined the strike, according to a tally on the Facebook page of the Fridays for Future movement, a network of young climate protesters.

An estimated 1.5 million young people took part in a previous global school strike on March 15.

In New York, several hundred children and teenagers marched from Columbus Circle to Times Square, shouting their support for a "Green New Deal" proposed in Congress that calls among other things for 100 per cent of US power demand to be met through renewable energy sources within 10 years.

The protesters held a "die-in" in Times Square, lying on the ground for 11 minutes to represent the 11 years scientists have said it may take for earth's temperature to rise to an irreversible tipping point if carbon emissions are not substantially cut.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/main-european-union-parties-adopt-climate-change-as-rallying-cry-221214">Climate change</a> has moved up the political agenda this year, especially among young, first-time voters who fear that they will bear the brunt of global warming, spurring a wave of support for Green candidates.

But much of the debate during European campaigning has focused on issues such as immigration and austerity.

The single most effective weapon in the fight against climate change - imposing taxes on those who emit greenhouse gases - can be politically fraught, however. France was forced to delay a plan to raise taxes on diesel oil last December in response to weeks of sometimes violent protests.

FRIDAYS FOR FUTURE

Thunberg has emerged as a leading figure in the movement since she first protested in favour of climate action alone in August outside the Swedish parliament. She was nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize, featured on the cover of Time magazine and travelled to Europe by train to lambaste senior figures in government and industry.

Children, teenagers and adults who had felt powerless in the face of the climate crisis have rallied behind Fridays for Future in the hope of forcing politicians and business leaders to heed scientists' warnings.

"We are putting pressure on the governments and we want them to act fast and now," said David Wicker, 14, who joined some 7,500 young protesters in Brussels.

Young people who took time off school to protest on Friday urged adults to heed calls by climate activists for a global general strike on Sept. 20.

In Paris, Celia Benmessaoud, 15, held up a sign saying "There's Is No Planet B," and said she hoped the school strike would change the world - echoing participants around the world, from India, Turkey and Gambia to countries across Europe.

Global warming caused by heat-trapping greenhouse gases from burning fossil fuels has already led to droughts and heatwaves, melting glaciers, rising sea levels and floods, scientists say.

Carbon emissions hit a record high last year, despite a warning from the UN-backed Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change in October that output of the gases will have to be slashed over the next 12 years to stabilise the climate.

Swedish teenage activist Greta Thunberg urged European politicians on Friday to focus on a climate crisis instead of "bickering", as children walked out of classes around the world to back her demands for urgent action to curb carbon emissions.

Swedish teenage activist Greta Thunberg urged European politicians on Friday to focus on a climate crisis instead of "bickering", as children walked out of classes around the world to back her demands for urgent action to curb carbon emissions. Thunberg, 16, said the threat of societal breakdown posed by runaway climate change should overshadow every other campaign issue in the European Union's parliamentary elections this week. "If the EU were to decide to seriously fight the climate crisis, it would mean a decisive global change. And the EU election should reasonably only be about this. But it isn't," Thunberg told thousands gathered in Kungstradgarden square in Stockholm's banking district. By 2200 GMT, more than 1.8 million people in 2,350 cities across 125 countries had joined the strike, according to a tally on the Facebook page of the Fridays for Future movement, a network of young climate protesters. An estimated 1.5 million young people took part in a previous global school strike on March 15. In New York, several hundred children and teenagers marched from Columbus Circle to Times Square, shouting their support for a "Green New Deal" proposed in Congress that calls among other things for 100 per cent of US power demand to be met through renewable energy sources within 10 years. The protesters held a "die-in" in Times Square, lying on the ground for 11 minutes to represent the 11 years scientists have said it may take for earth's temperature to rise to an irreversible tipping point if carbon emissions are not substantially cut. Climate change has moved up the political agenda this year, especially among young, first-time voters who fear that they will bear the brunt of global warming, spurring a wave of support for Green candidates. But much of the debate during European campaigning has focused on issues such as immigration and austerity. The single most effective weapon in the fight against climate change - imposing taxes on those who emit greenhouse gases - can be politically fraught, however. France was forced to delay a plan to raise taxes on diesel oil last December in response to weeks of sometimes violent protests. FRIDAYS FOR FUTURE Thunberg has emerged as a leading figure in the movement since she first protested in favour of climate action alone in August outside the Swedish parliament. She was nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize, featured on the cover of Time magazine and travelled to Europe by train to lambaste senior figures in government and industry. Children, teenagers and adults who had felt powerless in the face of the climate crisis have rallied behind Fridays for Future in the hope of forcing politicians and business leaders to heed scientists' warnings. "We are putting pressure on the governments and we want them to act fast and now," said David Wicker, 14, who joined some 7,500 young protesters in Brussels. Young people who took time off school to protest on Friday urged adults to heed calls by climate activists for a global general strike on Sept. 20. In Paris, Celia Benmessaoud, 15, held up a sign saying "There's Is No Planet B," and said she hoped the school strike would change the world - echoing participants around the world, from India, Turkey and Gambia to countries across Europe. Global warming caused by heat-trapping greenhouse gases from burning fossil fuels has already led to droughts and heatwaves, melting glaciers, rising sea levels and floods, scientists say. Carbon emissions hit a record high last year, despite a warning from the UN-backed Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change in October that output of the gases will have to be slashed over the next 12 years to stabilise the climate.

Sweden's Thunberg demands climate action on day of global school strikes

Voting got underway on Thursday in Britain and the Netherlands in the ninth European Parliamentary election, which will continue for three more days in the 26 other EU members.

Here are five things to watch out for:

&nbsp;Populist high tide

A very loose coalition of populist and eurosceptic forces hope to make inroads into the parliament and threaten the mainstream consensus in support of closer EU integration.

Brussels officials fear they could win 200 of the 751 seats, buoyed by strong showings by Matteo Salvini's Italian far-right League and Marine Le Pen's National Rally from France.

But observers doubt the populists' ability to form an effective coalition, and the mainstream centrist blocs could welcome liberal and Green members into a broader alliance to contain the threat.

Turnout doomed to fall

In the first election to the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/last-hurdle-for-european-union-copyright-reform-in-european-parliament-205332"> European Parliament</a> in 1979, 62 per cent of eligible voters in what were then nine member states took part.

Since then the number of members has swollen to 28, but turnout has fallen very five years, to just over 42 per cent in the last election in 2014.

Mainstream national leaders like France's President Emmanuel Macron and Dutch premier Mark Rutte have urged voters to turn out to resist the advance of eurosceptic forces.&nbsp;

But another low turnout would be seen by many as further evidence that the concerns of Brussels are increasingly divorced from the popular mood.

Last chance for lead candidates

Europe's national leaders are extremely sceptical of ceding authority to the European Parliament to choose a candidate for Brussels' top job, president of the European Commission.

But if, for example, the centre-right EPP bloc were to emerge with strong support, it would strengthen its case for its lead candidate, Bavarian conservative Manfred Weber.

Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel has vowed to champion her ally next week when the leaders meet to discuss names for Europe's main posts.

But a low turnout and an unclear result in the case would strengthen the hands of leaders like Macron and Rutte who oppose the entire "spitzenkandidat" process.

&nbsp;Britain's last hurrah

Since the last European election, British voters have decided to quit the Union altogether, and this week's election might be the last for UK parties.

Brexit Day itself has been postponed, triggering a crisis for Prime Minister Theresa May's government, and Nigel Farage's Brexit Party is expected to do well.

British media report that May will step down as leader of the Conservative Party on Friday, opening space for a more eurosceptic premier to take charge before the October 31 deadline.

This in turn, along with the performance of pro-EU parties, will influence the debate in the other EU capitals about whether to accord Britain another Brexit extension.

Green shoots

Hundreds of thousands of mainly young Europeans, inspired by 16-year-old Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, have taken to the streets in recent months to demand action on climate change.

Through school strikes, civil disobedience and large-scale marches, the movements has succeeded in pushing the issue up the agenda for European political debate.

But will this translate into more votes for Green parties in this week's poll?

Probably not, at least continent-wide. The school strikes, for example, were carried out by those too young to vote, and the movement is better organised in some countries than others.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Polls predict the Green bloc in the 751-seat EU parliament will remain at around 50 members but may become more powerful as a kingmaker if the two main centrist parties fall short of a majority.

Voting got underway on Thursday in Britain and the Netherlands in the ninth European Parliamentary election, which will continue for three more days in the 26 other EU members.

Voting got underway on Thursday in Britain and the Netherlands in the ninth European Parliamentary election, which will continue for three more days in the 26 other EU members. Here are five things to watch out for: Populist high tide A very loose coalition of populist and eurosceptic forces hope to make inroads into the parliament and threaten the mainstream consensus in support of closer EU integration. Brussels officials fear they could win 200 of the 751 seats, buoyed by strong showings by Matteo Salvini's Italian far-right League and Marine Le Pen's National Rally from France. But observers doubt the populists' ability to form an effective coalition, and the mainstream centrist blocs could welcome liberal and Green members into a broader alliance to contain the threat. Turnout doomed to fall In the first election to the European Parliament in 1979, 62 per cent of eligible voters in what were then nine member states took part. Since then the number of members has swollen to 28, but turnout has fallen very five years, to just over 42 per cent in the last election in 2014. Mainstream national leaders like France's President Emmanuel Macron and Dutch premier Mark Rutte have urged voters to turn out to resist the advance of eurosceptic forces. But another low turnout would be seen by many as further evidence that the concerns of Brussels are increasingly divorced from the popular mood. Last chance for lead candidates Europe's national leaders are extremely sceptical of ceding authority to the European Parliament to choose a candidate for Brussels' top job, president of the European Commission. But if, for example, the centre-right EPP bloc were to emerge with strong support, it would strengthen its case for its lead candidate, Bavarian conservative Manfred Weber. Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel has vowed to champion her ally next week when the leaders meet to discuss names for Europe's main posts. But a low turnout and an unclear result in the case would strengthen the hands of leaders like Macron and Rutte who oppose the entire "spitzenkandidat" process. Britain's last hurrah Since the last European election, British voters have decided to quit the Union altogether, and this week's election might be the last for UK parties. Brexit Day itself has been postponed, triggering a crisis for Prime Minister Theresa May's government, and Nigel Farage's Brexit Party is expected to do well. British media report that May will step down as leader of the Conservative Party on Friday, opening space for a more eurosceptic premier to take charge before the October 31 deadline. This in turn, along with the performance of pro-EU parties, will influence the debate in the other EU capitals about whether to accord Britain another Brexit extension. Green shoots Hundreds of thousands of mainly young Europeans, inspired by 16-year-old Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, have taken to the streets in recent months to demand action on climate change. Through school strikes, civil disobedience and large-scale marches, the movements has succeeded in pushing the issue up the agenda for European political debate. But will this translate into more votes for Green parties in this week's poll? Probably not, at least continent-wide. The school strikes, for example, were carried out by those too young to vote, and the movement is better organised in some countries than others. Polls predict the Green bloc in the 751-seat EU parliament will remain at around 50 members but may become more powerful as a kingmaker if the two main centrist parties fall short of a majority.

European Union elections: Five things to watch

European Council chief Donald Tusk on Saturday joined thousands at a pro-Europe opposition rally in Warsaw, calling on his fellow Poles to vote against the eurosceptic governing conservatives in this month's EU elections.

"You have no choice... You can't leave the future of our children and grandchildren in their hands," Tusk said, referring to the right-wing Law and Justice (PiS) party.

"Our children and grandchildren would never forgive us... Go forth towards victory," he added to cheers and applause at the rally organised by the opposition European Coalition.

A former Polish premier, Tusk is widely believed to be eyeing a political comeback at home once his EU term ends in November.&nbsp;

Without referring to him by name, Tusk compared his arch-rival and PiS leader Jaroslaw Kaczynski to an ayatollah during the rally attended by Poles from across the country.

Marching through downtown Warsaw with Polish and EU flags, participants chanted "We will win" and "Freedom, equality, democracy". Some held up signs with slogans like "We want Europe".&nbsp;

One poster read "Duck off" in an allusion to Kaczynski, whose last name is similar to the Polish word for duck.&nbsp;

"Those currently in power are against values that I hold dear," said student Aleksander Jaszczynski.&nbsp;

"We want Poland's voice to be modern, European, tolerant and open-minded," he told AFP.&nbsp;

Computer scientist Miroslaw Janusz said he attended the rally to back a Poland that plays a positive role in the EU instead of "turning its back on the bloc, like the current government."

The PiS, which has frequently sparred with Brussels since coming to power in 2015, has toned down its Euroscepticism ahead of the May 26 EU ballot and the Polish general election later this year.&nbsp;

The party also recently announced plans to raise prison terms for paedophilia after a documentary on child sex abuse by Polish clergy sent shock waves through the devout country of 38 million people.

Observers say the film could deal a blow to the chances of the ruling conservatives in the election, given their close ties to the Catholic Church.&nbsp;

The PiS and Poland's other main political force -- the European Coalition, a group of opposition parties led by the liberal Civic Platform (PO) -- are currently polling neck and neck, with the new progressive Spring party in third place.&nbsp;

European Council chief Donald Tusk on Saturday joined thousands at a pro-Europe opposition rally in Warsaw, calling on his fellow Poles to vote against the eurosceptic governing conservatives in this month's EU elections.

European Council chief Donald Tusk on Saturday joined thousands at a pro-Europe opposition rally in Warsaw, calling on his fellow Poles to vote against the eurosceptic governing conservatives in this month's EU elections. "You have no choice... You can't leave the future of our children and grandchildren in their hands," Tusk said, referring to the right-wing Law and Justice (PiS) party. "Our children and grandchildren would never forgive us... Go forth towards victory," he added to cheers and applause at the rally organised by the opposition European Coalition. A former Polish premier, Tusk is widely believed to be eyeing a political comeback at home once his EU term ends in November. Without referring to him by name, Tusk compared his arch-rival and PiS leader Jaroslaw Kaczynski to an ayatollah during the rally attended by Poles from across the country. Marching through downtown Warsaw with Polish and EU flags, participants chanted "We will win" and "Freedom, equality, democracy". Some held up signs with slogans like "We want Europe". One poster read "Duck off" in an allusion to Kaczynski, whose last name is similar to the Polish word for duck. "Those currently in power are against values that I hold dear," said student Aleksander Jaszczynski. "We want Poland's voice to be modern, European, tolerant and open-minded," he told AFP. Computer scientist Miroslaw Janusz said he attended the rally to back a Poland that plays a positive role in the EU instead of "turning its back on the bloc, like the current government." The PiS, which has frequently sparred with Brussels since coming to power in 2015, has toned down its Euroscepticism ahead of the May 26 EU ballot and the Polish general election later this year. The party also recently announced plans to raise prison terms for paedophilia after a documentary on child sex abuse by Polish clergy sent shock waves through the devout country of 38 million people. Observers say the film could deal a blow to the chances of the ruling conservatives in the election, given their close ties to the Catholic Church. The PiS and Poland's other main political force -- the European Coalition, a group of opposition parties led by the liberal Civic Platform (PO) -- are currently polling neck and neck, with the new progressive Spring party in third place.

Poland: Thousands of Poles, including Donald Tusk, hold pro-EU rally before vote

Austrian Vice-Chancellor Heinz-Christian Strache, a key figure of the European far-right, resigned Saturday after e<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/austrian-government-teeters-after-video-of-far-right-leader-219573">xplosive revelations from a hidden camera sting</a>, just days before key EU elections.&nbsp;

"I tendered my resignation as vice-chancellor of Austria to Chancellor Kurz, and he accepted this decision," an emotional Strache said in a televised statement.

Media reports emerged on Friday alleging that Strache promised public contracts in return for campaign help from a fake Russian backer he met in a luxury villa on the island of Ibiza a few months before 2017's parliamentary elections in Austria.

On Saturday Strache insisted he was the "victim of a targeted political attack" which had used illegal means, but that he was leaving in order to avoid further damage to the government.

Germany's Der Spiegel and Sueddeutsche Zeitung published hidden-camera recordings of the sophisticated sting operation.

In the recordings, Strache and his party's group leader in parliament, Johann Gudenus are seen discussing with a woman purporting to be the niece of a Russian oligarch how she can invest in Austria.

She says she specifically wants to gain control of the country's largest-circulation tabloid, the Krone Zeitung.

Strache is seen suggesting that new owners could make staff changes at the Krone and use the paper to help his Freedom Party (FPOe) in its election campaign.

He goes on to suggest the woman would then be able to gain access to public contracts.

According to the newspapers, Strache says that there would be no resistance among the Krone's editorial staff as "journalists are the biggest whores on the planet".

Both the newspapers that published the footage say they don't have any firm information over who set up the elaborate sting.

'Done for!'

Chancellor Sebastian Kurz was due to give his reaction to the scandal on Saturday, with rumours rife that he may push for early elections.

The Krone Zeitung took a particularly outraged tone in its coverage, with its Saturday edition sporting a banner headline reading "The FPOe is done for!".

The Die Presse newspaper's headline talks of a "coalition on the brink".

The Austrian APA agency reports FPOe party sources as saying they want to try to save the coalition with Kurz's centre-right People's Party (OeVP) by replacing Strache as vice-chancellor with Transport Minister Norbert Hofer, also from the FPOe.

Elsewhere in the video Strache evokes the possibility of privatising part of Austria's public broadcaster ORF and says he would like Austria's media landscape to resemble that of neighbouring Hungary.

Hungary's right-wing nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orban has overhauled the country's public media into a government propaganda organ while allies have steadily bought up swathes of the private media sector.

The FPOe has mounted repeated attacks on the ORF's coverage, accusing it of being biased against the party.

Strache also appeared to hint at possible ways political donations could be made to a foundation linked to the FPOe and not to the party directly, apparently in order to escape legal scrutiny.

In recent weeks Kurz has already had to defend his decision to enter government with the far-right after a string of revelations about extremist sympathies in the FPOe's ranks.&nbsp;

The putative link to Russia in the scandal is particularly embarrassing as the FPOe has a cooperation agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin's United Russia party, leading many to accuse the FPOe of an overly close relationship with Moscow.

The FPOe's lead candidate in next week's elections, MEP Harald Vilimsky, cancelled a planned trip to Milan on Saturday where he was due to take part in a campaign event with far-right Italian Interior Minister Matteo Salvini.

Strache, 49, succeeded the mercurial Joerg Haider as leader of the party in 2005.

He himself flirted with neo-Nazism in his youth, but as leader sought to clean up the party's image and make it more electable.

Austrian Vice-Chancellor Heinz-Christian Strache, a key figure of the European far-right, resigned Saturday after explosive revelations from a hidden camera sting, just days before key EU elections.

Austrian Vice-Chancellor Heinz-Christian Strache, a key figure of the European far-right, resigned Saturday after explosive revelations from a hidden camera sting, just days before key EU elections. "I tendered my resignation as vice-chancellor of Austria to Chancellor Kurz, and he accepted this decision," an emotional Strache said in a televised statement. Media reports emerged on Friday alleging that Strache promised public contracts in return for campaign help from a fake Russian backer he met in a luxury villa on the island of Ibiza a few months before 2017's parliamentary elections in Austria. On Saturday Strache insisted he was the "victim of a targeted political attack" which had used illegal means, but that he was leaving in order to avoid further damage to the government. Germany's Der Spiegel and Sueddeutsche Zeitung published hidden-camera recordings of the sophisticated sting operation. In the recordings, Strache and his party's group leader in parliament, Johann Gudenus are seen discussing with a woman purporting to be the niece of a Russian oligarch how she can invest in Austria. She says she specifically wants to gain control of the country's largest-circulation tabloid, the Krone Zeitung. Strache is seen suggesting that new owners could make staff changes at the Krone and use the paper to help his Freedom Party (FPOe) in its election campaign. He goes on to suggest the woman would then be able to gain access to public contracts. According to the newspapers, Strache says that there would be no resistance among the Krone's editorial staff as "journalists are the biggest whores on the planet". Both the newspapers that published the footage say they don't have any firm information over who set up the elaborate sting. 'Done for!' Chancellor Sebastian Kurz was due to give his reaction to the scandal on Saturday, with rumours rife that he may push for early elections. The Krone Zeitung took a particularly outraged tone in its coverage, with its Saturday edition sporting a banner headline reading "The FPOe is done for!". The Die Presse newspaper's headline talks of a "coalition on the brink". The Austrian APA agency reports FPOe party sources as saying they want to try to save the coalition with Kurz's centre-right People's Party (OeVP) by replacing Strache as vice-chancellor with Transport Minister Norbert Hofer, also from the FPOe. Elsewhere in the video Strache evokes the possibility of privatising part of Austria's public broadcaster ORF and says he would like Austria's media landscape to resemble that of neighbouring Hungary. Hungary's right-wing nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orban has overhauled the country's public media into a government propaganda organ while allies have steadily bought up swathes of the private media sector. The FPOe has mounted repeated attacks on the ORF's coverage, accusing it of being biased against the party. Strache also appeared to hint at possible ways political donations could be made to a foundation linked to the FPOe and not to the party directly, apparently in order to escape legal scrutiny. In recent weeks Kurz has already had to defend his decision to enter government with the far-right after a string of revelations about extremist sympathies in the FPOe's ranks. The putative link to Russia in the scandal is particularly embarrassing as the FPOe has a cooperation agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin's United Russia party, leading many to accuse the FPOe of an overly close relationship with Moscow. The FPOe's lead candidate in next week's elections, MEP Harald Vilimsky, cancelled a planned trip to Milan on Saturday where he was due to take part in a campaign event with far-right Italian Interior Minister Matteo Salvini. Strache, 49, succeeded the mercurial Joerg Haider as leader of the party in 2005. He himself flirted with neo-Nazism in his youth, but as leader sought to clean up the party's image and make it more electable.

Austrian far-right leader resigns over 'Ibiza affair'

Facebook, Google and Twitter were reprimanded by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-facebook-twitter-have-to-do-more-to-fight-fake-news-european-union-212915">European Commission</a> on Friday for not doing enough to tackle fake news plaguing the election campaign to the European Parliament, seven months after promising to do more.

The tech giants took a voluntary pledge last October to combat the spread of fake news, hoping to avoid more heavy-handed rules. Elections to the European Parliament will be held in the 28 countries making up the European Union on May 23-26.

Foreign interference during the campaign and in national elections in Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Poland, Portugal and Ukraine in the coming months has been a key concern for the Commission and EU governments.

Facebook, Google and Twitter are still falling, the EU executive said in its report on their efforts in April.

"More needs to be done to strengthen the integrity of their services, including advertising services," the Commission's digital chief Andrus Ansip, Justice Commissioner Vera Jourova, Security Commissioner Julian King and Digital Economy Commissioner Mariya Gabriel said in a joint statement.

"The data provided still lacks the level of detail necessary to allow for an independent and accurate assessment of how the platforms' policies have actually contributed to reducing the spread of disinformation in the EU," they said.

Google and Twitter were criticised for failing to develop and implement policies for identifying and disclosing issue-based ads before next week's vote. Such ads can stoke divisive public debate during elections and are prone to disinformation.

Facebook, which took down a fake Russian network targeting Ukraine, was rapped for not saying whether the network also affected users in the EU.

Facebook, Google and Twitter were reprimanded by the European Commission on Friday for not doing enough to tackle fake news plaguing the election campaign to the European Parliament, seven months after promising to do more.

Facebook, Google and Twitter were reprimanded by the European Commission on Friday for not doing enough to tackle fake news plaguing the election campaign to the European Parliament, seven months after promising to do more. The tech giants took a voluntary pledge last October to combat the spread of fake news, hoping to avoid more heavy-handed rules. Elections to the European Parliament will be held in the 28 countries making up the European Union on May 23-26. Foreign interference during the campaign and in national elections in Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Poland, Portugal and Ukraine in the coming months has been a key concern for the Commission and EU governments. Facebook, Google and Twitter are still falling, the EU executive said in its report on their efforts in April. "More needs to be done to strengthen the integrity of their services, including advertising services," the Commission's digital chief Andrus Ansip, Justice Commissioner Vera Jourova, Security Commissioner Julian King and Digital Economy Commissioner Mariya Gabriel said in a joint statement. "The data provided still lacks the level of detail necessary to allow for an independent and accurate assessment of how the platforms' policies have actually contributed to reducing the spread of disinformation in the EU," they said. Google and Twitter were criticised for failing to develop and implement policies for identifying and disclosing issue-based ads before next week's vote. Such ads can stoke divisive public debate during elections and are prone to disinformation. Facebook, which took down a fake Russian network targeting Ukraine, was rapped for not saying whether the network also affected users in the EU.

Google, Facebook, Twitter rapped for not doing enough in European Union fake news fight

The European Union on Friday adopted powers to punish those outside the bloc who launch cyber attacks that cripple hospitals and banks, sway elections and steal company secrets or funds.

EU ministers meeting in Brussels said the 28-nation group would now, for the first time, be able to impose asset freezes and travel bans on individuals, firms and state bodies implicated in such attacks.

"The Council (of EU countries) established a framework which allows the EU to impose targeted restrictive measures to deter and respond to cyber attacks," it said in a statement.

It said sanctions will be considered if a cyber attack is determined to have had a &nbsp;"significant impact" on its target.

The goal is to bolster the security of EU institutions, firms and individuals against what one diplomat called an increase in the "scale and severity" of cyber attacks globally.

Under the legislation, diplomats said, the 28 EU countries would have to vote unanimously to impose sanctions after meeting a legal threshold of significant impact.

For example, countries would look at the scope and severity of disruption to economic and other activities, essential services, critical state functions, public order or public safety, diplomats said.

They would examine the number of people and EU countries affected and determine how much money, intellectual property and data is stolen.

EU diplomats told reporters it could also cover the hacking of European elections by a third party or country, amid fears that Russia is working to undermine democracy in its western rivals.

They would also study how much the perpetrator has gained through such action.&nbsp;

A Dutch diplomat told reporters that the powers amount to a "big step forward" toward building more secure cyberspace.

"We have seen a seen increase in the scale and severity of cyber attacks globally," an EU diplomat said. "Hostile actors have been threatening EU security."

The new regime "sends a clear message that the EU is willing and able to impose consequences on irresponsible behaviour in cyberspace," he said.

In line with US intelligence assessments, EU officials highlight in particular the threat of disinformation and election hacking from Russia.

European leaders in October had called for a law to impose sanctions against cyber attacks.

The European Union on Friday adopted powers to punish those outside the bloc who launch cyber attacks that cripple hospitals and banks, sway elections and steal company secrets or funds.

The European Union on Friday adopted powers to punish those outside the bloc who launch cyber attacks that cripple hospitals and banks, sway elections and steal company secrets or funds. EU ministers meeting in Brussels said the 28-nation group would now, for the first time, be able to impose asset freezes and travel bans on individuals, firms and state bodies implicated in such attacks. "The Council (of EU countries) established a framework which allows the EU to impose targeted restrictive measures to deter and respond to cyber attacks," it said in a statement. It said sanctions will be considered if a cyber attack is determined to have had a "significant impact" on its target. The goal is to bolster the security of EU institutions, firms and individuals against what one diplomat called an increase in the "scale and severity" of cyber attacks globally. Under the legislation, diplomats said, the 28 EU countries would have to vote unanimously to impose sanctions after meeting a legal threshold of significant impact. For example, countries would look at the scope and severity of disruption to economic and other activities, essential services, critical state functions, public order or public safety, diplomats said. They would examine the number of people and EU countries affected and determine how much money, intellectual property and data is stolen. EU diplomats told reporters it could also cover the hacking of European elections by a third party or country, amid fears that Russia is working to undermine democracy in its western rivals. They would also study how much the perpetrator has gained through such action. A Dutch diplomat told reporters that the powers amount to a "big step forward" toward building more secure cyberspace. "We have seen a seen increase in the scale and severity of cyber attacks globally," an EU diplomat said. "Hostile actors have been threatening EU security." The new regime "sends a clear message that the EU is willing and able to impose consequences on irresponsible behaviour in cyberspace," he said. In line with US intelligence assessments, EU officials highlight in particular the threat of disinformation and election hacking from Russia. European leaders in October had called for a law to impose sanctions against cyber attacks.

European Union adopts powers to respond to cyberattacks

Lithuanians go to the polls on Sunday to elect a new president after a campaign dominated by concerns over growing social inequality in the eurozone Baltic state.

Following are snapshots of the top three candidates:

Simonyte: liberal with austerity past

Economist Ingrida Simonyte was thrust into the public spotlight when appointed to oversee biting austerity measures during the 2009 global financial crisis. That saw Lithuania's economy shrink by nearly 15 per cent.

She drew sharp criticism for deep cuts to public salaries and state pensions, but her supporters insist bold actions helped return the economy to growth the following year without a currency devaluation.

After conservatives lost elections to leftists in 2012, Simonyte was a central bank deputy governor in 2013-2016, before winning a seat in parliament in 2016.

Charming the media with her sharp sense of humour, she is also an open supporter of gay rights and has many followers among young, urban and liberal voters in the predominantly Catholic country.

The 44-year-old won conservative party primaries last year and is their official nominee, but has never been a party member of the Homeland Union - Lithuanian Christian Democrats.

Simonyte, who is single, is fluent in English, Russian and Polish as well as her native Lithuanian, and speaks some Swedish. A fan of rock music and ice hockey, she also enjoys reading, Nordic walking and gardening.

Skvernelis: top cop turned premier

Skvernelis joined the police force as a beat officer in 1998, working his way up to deputy national commander after a decade, then police chief in 2011.

His wide-ranging reforms targeted corruption and road safety, making a lasting impression that won him respect and popularity.

Skvernelis launched his political career in 2014 by swapping his uniform for a suit and the office of the interior minister.

He became prime minister after leading the list of the centre-left Lithuanian Farmers and Green Union in the 2016 elections but has also never formally joined the party.

Skvernelis has positioned himself as an alternative to business and political elites, and has pledged to continue fighting corruption and offered generous spending to combat poverty. These measures have won him considerable popularity in rural areas and among older voters.

Never one to shy away from speaking his mind, Skvernelis has had verbal run-ins with several politicians.&nbsp;

For critics, his running feud with President Dalia Grybauskaite, the country’s most popular politician -- and with some journalists -- have raised doubts about whether he possesses the gravitas expected of the head of state.

Skvernelis, 48, speaks Russian, Polish and some English. He is a married and a father of two who enjoys gardening and basketball, Lithuania's national sport.

Nauseda: a moderate voice

Gitanas Nauseda is a political novice who spent most his career in commercial banking, most recently as an advisor to the president of Lithuania's top bank.

For the last decade, he has been in the public eye as an articulate commentator on economic and financial matters and kept a moderate and measured stance on almost all issues.

The 54-year-old is not backed by any major political force and has positioned himself as a figure of compromise, while also describing his views as centre-right.

For his supporters, who include former president Valdas Adamkus, Nauseda is a much needed fresh face with the intellectual capacity and demeanour to bring more harmony into politics.

His critics, however, see him as a two-faced candidate serving big business.

He is fluent in English, German and Russian, is married and a father of two daughters. He enjoys collecting rare books and playing chess.

Lithuanians go to the polls on Sunday to elect a new president after a campaign dominated by concerns over growing social inequality in the eurozone Baltic state.

Lithuanians go to the polls on Sunday to elect a new president after a campaign dominated by concerns over growing social inequality in the eurozone Baltic state. Following are snapshots of the top three candidates: Simonyte: liberal with austerity past Economist Ingrida Simonyte was thrust into the public spotlight when appointed to oversee biting austerity measures during the 2009 global financial crisis. That saw Lithuania's economy shrink by nearly 15 per cent. She drew sharp criticism for deep cuts to public salaries and state pensions, but her supporters insist bold actions helped return the economy to growth the following year without a currency devaluation. After conservatives lost elections to leftists in 2012, Simonyte was a central bank deputy governor in 2013-2016, before winning a seat in parliament in 2016. Charming the media with her sharp sense of humour, she is also an open supporter of gay rights and has many followers among young, urban and liberal voters in the predominantly Catholic country. The 44-year-old won conservative party primaries last year and is their official nominee, but has never been a party member of the Homeland Union - Lithuanian Christian Democrats. Simonyte, who is single, is fluent in English, Russian and Polish as well as her native Lithuanian, and speaks some Swedish. A fan of rock music and ice hockey, she also enjoys reading, Nordic walking and gardening. Skvernelis: top cop turned premier Skvernelis joined the police force as a beat officer in 1998, working his way up to deputy national commander after a decade, then police chief in 2011. His wide-ranging reforms targeted corruption and road safety, making a lasting impression that won him respect and popularity. Skvernelis launched his political career in 2014 by swapping his uniform for a suit and the office of the interior minister. He became prime minister after leading the list of the centre-left Lithuanian Farmers and Green Union in the 2016 elections but has also never formally joined the party. Skvernelis has positioned himself as an alternative to business and political elites, and has pledged to continue fighting corruption and offered generous spending to combat poverty. These measures have won him considerable popularity in rural areas and among older voters. Never one to shy away from speaking his mind, Skvernelis has had verbal run-ins with several politicians. For critics, his running feud with President Dalia Grybauskaite, the country’s most popular politician -- and with some journalists -- have raised doubts about whether he possesses the gravitas expected of the head of state. Skvernelis, 48, speaks Russian, Polish and some English. He is a married and a father of two who enjoys gardening and basketball, Lithuania's national sport. Nauseda: a moderate voice Gitanas Nauseda is a political novice who spent most his career in commercial banking, most recently as an advisor to the president of Lithuania's top bank. For the last decade, he has been in the public eye as an articulate commentator on economic and financial matters and kept a moderate and measured stance on almost all issues. The 54-year-old is not backed by any major political force and has positioned himself as a figure of compromise, while also describing his views as centre-right. For his supporters, who include former president Valdas Adamkus, Nauseda is a much needed fresh face with the intellectual capacity and demeanour to bring more harmony into politics. His critics, however, see him as a two-faced candidate serving big business. He is fluent in English, German and Russian, is married and a father of two daughters. He enjoys collecting rare books and playing chess.

Pro-European Union rivals vye to become Lithuania's next president

Alphabet Inc's&nbsp;Google said it will roll out new policies in Europe to provide more transparency around political ads, ahead of European Union elections in the spring, Bloomberg reported on Wednesday, citing a blog post.

According to the report, Google said it would require advertisers to submit an application and receive verification before they can pay for political ads.

Google did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The European Commission said in September that Facebook Inc, Google and other tech firms had agreed a code of conduct to do more to tackle the spread of fake news, over concerns it can influence elections.

Google also said it would publish an EU transparency report, along with a searchable ad library, to provide more information about who is purchasing election ads, for how much, and to whom they are targeted, Bloomberg reported.

Public databases that shine a light on online political ads - launched by Facebook and Google before U.S. elections - offer the public the first broad view of how quickly the companies yank advertisements that break their rules.

Alphabet Inc's Google said it will roll out new policies in Europe to provide more transparency around political ads, ahead of European Union elections in the spring, Bloomberg reported on Wednesday, citing a blog post.

Alphabet Inc's Google said it will roll out new policies in Europe to provide more transparency around political ads, ahead of European Union elections in the spring, Bloomberg reported on Wednesday, citing a blog post. According to the report, Google said it would require advertisers to submit an application and receive verification before they can pay for political ads. Google did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The European Commission said in September that Facebook Inc, Google and other tech firms had agreed a code of conduct to do more to tackle the spread of fake news, over concerns it can influence elections. Google also said it would publish an EU transparency report, along with a searchable ad library, to provide more information about who is purchasing election ads, for how much, and to whom they are targeted, Bloomberg reported. Public databases that shine a light on online political ads - launched by Facebook and Google before U.S. elections - offer the public the first broad view of how quickly the companies yank advertisements that break their rules.

Google reveals new policy for election ads ahead of EU vote: Report

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