Donald Trump has invitedumerous countries to join his "Board of Peace", which according to the US president willot only deal with the situation in Gaza, but also serve as a permanent body for conflict resolution. The possible participation of leaders such as Vladimir Putin and Alexander Lukashenka is particularly controversial. Commentators also warn that the Board could be used to permanently weaken the UN.

The World Economic Forum (WEF), which brings together leading figures from business, politics and science, is taking place this week at the Swiss resort of Davos under the motto "Spirit of dialogue". All eyes areow on US President Donald Trump, who before boarding his plane to head to the meeting today said he believed a solution would be found in the dispute over Greenland that would make Nato and the US 'very happy'.

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 decisionow 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 railwayation. Theational press discusses the failures and the behaviour of politicians.