„These are going to be difficult times for Europe,“ tweeted the Vice President of the European Parliament, Katarina Barley (SPD), in response to the election victory of the right-wing parties in Italy. The result had been expected and feared at the same time. Leading politicians are now warning about the EU’s ability to act. Three issues, in particular, worry Brussels and other capitals in the EU: Italy’s future Russia policy, the rule of law and public finances. Eric Bonse, Isabel Cuesta and Markus Grabitz capture the reactions in Europe.