EU elections leave Brussels walking a political tightrope

The results of the European Parliament elections show pro-European Union political parties have a fragmented majority, while anti-EU right-wing groups on the continent have made eye-catching political gains. There is no doubt this stark divide in public sentiment will have a far-reaching influence on the world's largest trading bloc's decision-making process as well as its interaction with the rest of the world.

For those who support European integration, Monday's election results will have been greeted with a sigh of relief as pro-EU voices across the continent still speak louder than those opposing closer EU integration. Brexit has dealt a heavy blow to the EU, and solidarity is badly needed in Brussels.

Yet the fact that far-right political groups in various EU member states have gained more seats in the elections means there will be more anti-EU, anti-immigration and anti-Muslim rhetoric in Brussels in the foreseeable future.