French President Emmanuel Macron has pledged to help draft a new constitution for Palestine, signaling France’s support for political reform and stability in the region. The announcement comes amid ongoing efforts to promote peace and strengthen governance structures.

French President Macron Promises to Draw New Constitution for Palestine

The French government said Wednesday it would suspend the Shein digital platform until the Asian e-commerce giant complied with French legislation, as controversy swirled over the online sale of childlike sex dolls. The announcement came as Shein opened its first brick-and-mortar store in the world in Paris amid a heavy police presence.&nbsp;"On the instructions of the prime minister, the government is initiating the procedure to suspend Shein for the time necessary for the platform to demonstrate to the public authorities that all of its content is finally in compliance with our laws and regulations," the office of Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu said. "An initial review will be conducted by ministers within the next 48 hours."&nbsp;Separately, the fast-fashion retailer said that it was suspending products from third-party sellers in France. A source close to the matter told AFP this announcement was unrelated to the government action against the online platform. The discovery of sex dolls on Shein's website triggered a political outcry in France.&nbsp;The Paris prosecutor's office has opened investigations against Shein, and also rival online retailer AliExpress, over the sale of the sex dolls.Shein, which was founded in China in 2012 but is now based in Singapore, has pledged to cooperate with French authorities and announced it was banning all sex dolls on its platform.&nbsp;In a new development, prosecutors said a man, already convicted of sexual assault, was arrested after ordering a childlike sex doll from China.Employees of a delivery company alerted police in the southern town of Bouc-Bel-Air after discovering a sex doll "in a package from China", prosecutors in Aix-en-Provence said.&nbsp;The parcel did not come from Shein, prosecutor Jean-Luc Blachon told AFP. The man, taken into custody, had previously been convicted of sexual assault and "admitted to having ordered the doll for sexual purposes," the prosecutor's office said.

The Paris prosecutor's office has opened investigations against Shein, and also rival online retailer AliExpress, over the sale of the sex dolls. Shein, which was founded in China in 2012 but is now based in Singapore, has pledged to cooperate with French authorities 

The French government said Wednesday it would suspend the Shein digital platform until the Asian e-commerce giant complied with French legislation, as controversy swirled over the online sale of childlike sex dolls. The announcement came as Shein opened its first brick-and-mortar store in the world in Paris amid a heavy police presence. "On the instructions of the prime minister, the government is initiating the procedure to suspend Shein for the time necessary for the platform to demonstrate to the public authorities that all of its content is finally in compliance with our laws and regulations," the office of Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu said. "An initial review will be conducted by ministers within the next 48 hours." Separately, the fast-fashion retailer said that it was suspending products from third-party sellers in France. A source close to the matter told AFP this announcement was unrelated to the government action against the online platform. The discovery of sex dolls on Shein's website triggered a political outcry in France. The Paris prosecutor's office has opened investigations against Shein, and also rival online retailer AliExpress, over the sale of the sex dolls. Shein, which was founded in China in 2012 but is now based in Singapore, has pledged to cooperate with French authorities and announced it was banning all sex dolls on its platform. In a new development, prosecutors said a man, already convicted of sexual assault, was arrested after ordering a childlike sex doll from China. Employees of a delivery company alerted police in the southern town of Bouc-Bel-Air after discovering a sex doll "in a package from China", prosecutors in Aix-en-Provence said. The parcel did not come from Shein, prosecutor Jean-Luc Blachon told AFP. The man, taken into custody, had previously been convicted of sexual assault and "admitted to having ordered the doll for sexual purposes," the prosecutor's office said.

The Paris prosecutor's office has opened investigations against Shein, and also rival online retailer AliExpress, over the sale of the sex dolls. Shein, which was founded in China in 2012 but is now based in Singapore, has pledged to cooperate with French authorities&nbsp;

France to suspend Shein website as first store opens in Paris

The French president, Emmanuel Macron, has reappointed his centrist ally Sébastien Lecornu as prime minister – days after Lecornu dramatically resigned and his new government collapsed after only 14 hours.

French President Macron Reappoints Lecornu as PM, Opposition Parties Slam Macron's Move

President Emmanuel Macron is always visible on the international stage as the face of European diplomacy in the war in Ukraine. But domestically, his ground is shaking. With five prime ministers in and out of the revolving door, one might think his time is up. But not so fast. France’s unique political system might ensure he completes his term in 2027 despite political and economic headwinds and social unrest. Here are his challenges — and why he might survive the storm.<h2>Emmanuel Macron’s second term descends into paralysis</h2>Macron is set to announce his sixth prime minister on Friday (Oct 10). Once seen as a centrist reformer and European leader, Macron now presides over a France beset by political gridlock, economic stagnation, and social unrest that regularly triggers protests. His approval rating has plummeted to 17 per cent, and five prime ministers have cycled through office in under three years — instability unseen since the Fourth Republic.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-at-a-political-crossroads-as-calls-for-macron-s-ouster-grows-1759944053069/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-at-a-political-crossroads-as-calls-for-macron-s-ouster-grows-1759944053069/embed</a><h2>Macron’s decision to dissolve parliament in 2024 backfired</h2>Arguably overconfident, Macron called snap elections in 2024, which resulted in a hung National Assembly. His Renaissance party holds only 166 seats, trailing the left-wing New Popular Front (193) and the far-right National Rally (142). What followed was chaos. Prime Ministers Elisabeth Borne, Gabriel Attal, Michel Barnier, François Bayrou, and Sébastien Lecornu all failed to stabilise governance — with Lecornu’s tenure ending after just 27 days. Macron attempted cross-party talks, but perceptions of his irrelevance are growing.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-france-pm-eduardo-philippe-gabriel-attal-go-against-president-macron-and-want-early-election-1759846486546">Former PM and French president's ally Eduardo Philippe wants Macron to call for early election</a><h2>On French streets, anger continues to mount</h2>French streets remain a barometer of social tension. Macron’s pension reform — raising the retirement age from 62 to 64 — sparked mass protests. Austerity plans totalling €44 billion in savings triggered strikes. The “Bloquons Tout” movement has organised blockades, while unrest in New Caledonia over voting rights reforms has highlighted deep colonial-era fractures. Once a symbol of modernisation, Macron is now seen by many as elitist and socially divisive.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-warns-un-against-letting-survival-of-the-fittest-define-world-order-a-dig-at-trump-1758674204290">Macron warns UN against letting 'survival of the fittest' define world order. A dig at Trump's 'America First' vision?</a><h2>France faces a deepening fiscal crisis</h2>French public debt reached €3.346 trillion — or 114 per cent of GDP — in the first quarter of 2025. Deficits are projected at 5 to 5.4 per cent of GDP. Macron failed to pass the 2026 budget due to the parliamentary deadlock, forcing France to operate under emergency spending rules. Markets are jittery, and the risk of credit downgrades looms.<h2>Yet, Macron is unlikely to leave office early</h2>Despite some allies calling for his resignation, Macron is expected to serve his full term thanks to France’s constitutional system. The Constitution of the Fifth Republic ensures presidential stability. Impeachment is only possible in cases of a “breach of duties,” and requires supermajorities in both parliamentary chambers and a ruling by a special court. No French president has ever been removed this way. Charles de Gaulle resigned voluntarily in 1969; others left only after losing elections.<h2>Macron could still dissolve parliament again</h2>With 18 months left until the 2027 election, Macron technically could dissolve parliament again — but he is unlikely to do so. Even as a lame-duck president, powerless domestically but constitutionally protected, he has the right to remain.In the end, Macron has become a symbol of the very dysfunction he aimed to overcome as France’s youngest president. Politically isolated, economically constrained, and socially rejected, his authority has collapsed. But the system that protects the presidency ensures he stays — not because he can govern, but because he cannot be removed.

Emmanuel Macron’s presidency faces political chaos, social unrest, economic crisis and low approval ratings. But France’s constitutional system likely ensures the president can complete his term. Here are the odds


President Emmanuel Macron is always visible on the international stage as the face of European diplomacy in the war in Ukraine. But domestically, his ground is shaking. With five prime ministers in and out of the revolving door, one might think his time is up. But not so fast. France’s unique political system might ensure he completes his term in 2027 despite political and economic headwinds and social unrest. Here are his challenges — and why he might survive the storm. Emmanuel Macron’s second term descends into paralysis Macron is set to announce his sixth prime minister on Friday (Oct 10). Once seen as a centrist reformer and European leader, Macron now presides over a France beset by political gridlock, economic stagnation, and social unrest that regularly triggers protests. His approval rating has plummeted to 17 per cent, and five prime ministers have cycled through office in under three years — instability unseen since the Fourth Republic. https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-at-a-political-crossroads-as-calls-for-macron-s-ouster-grows-1759944053069/embed Macron’s decision to dissolve parliament in 2024 backfired Arguably overconfident, Macron called snap elections in 2024, which resulted in a hung National Assembly. His Renaissance party holds only 166 seats, trailing the left-wing New Popular Front (193) and the far-right National Rally (142). What followed was chaos. Prime Ministers Elisabeth Borne, Gabriel Attal, Michel Barnier, François Bayrou, and Sébastien Lecornu all failed to stabilise governance — with Lecornu’s tenure ending after just 27 days. Macron attempted cross-party talks, but perceptions of his irrelevance are growing. Also read: Former PM and French president's ally Eduardo Philippe wants Macron to call for early election On French streets, anger continues to mount French streets remain a barometer of social tension. Macron’s pension reform — raising the retirement age from 62 to 64 — sparked mass protests. Austerity plans totalling €44 billion in savings triggered strikes. The “Bloquons Tout” movement has organised blockades, while unrest in New Caledonia over voting rights reforms has highlighted deep colonial-era fractures. Once a symbol of modernisation, Macron is now seen by many as elitist and socially divisive. Also read: Macron warns UN against letting 'survival of the fittest' define world order. A dig at Trump's 'America First' vision? France faces a deepening fiscal crisis French public debt reached €3.346 trillion — or 114 per cent of GDP — in the first quarter of 2025. Deficits are projected at 5 to 5.4 per cent of GDP. Macron failed to pass the 2026 budget due to the parliamentary deadlock, forcing France to operate under emergency spending rules. Markets are jittery, and the risk of credit downgrades looms. Yet, Macron is unlikely to leave office early Despite some allies calling for his resignation, Macron is expected to serve his full term thanks to France’s constitutional system. The Constitution of the Fifth Republic ensures presidential stability. Impeachment is only possible in cases of a “breach of duties,” and requires supermajorities in both parliamentary chambers and a ruling by a special court. No French president has ever been removed this way. Charles de Gaulle resigned voluntarily in 1969; others left only after losing elections. Macron could still dissolve parliament again With 18 months left until the 2027 election, Macron technically could dissolve parliament again — but he is unlikely to do so. Even as a lame-duck president, powerless domestically but constitutionally protected, he has the right to remain. In the end, Macron has become a symbol of the very dysfunction he aimed to overcome as France’s youngest president. Politically isolated, economically constrained, and socially rejected, his authority has collapsed. But the system that protects the presidency ensures he stays — not because he can govern, but because he cannot be removed.

Emmanuel Macron’s presidency faces political chaos, social unrest, economic crisis and low approval ratings. But France’s constitutional system likely ensures the president can complete his term. Here are the odds&nbsp;

Game over for Emmanuel Macron? President is down, but not out yet. How the French system will protect him

France President Emmanuel Macron defended France's decision to recognise Palestine as a state. He emphasised that France’s stance has remained consistent, stressing support for a two-state solution. Macron rejected claims that the recognition was merely symbolic, insisting that the move was part of a broader strategy to initiate a process that could lead to peace. He highlighted two main goals for the ongoing situation: the first, securing the release of hostages held by Hamas, and the second, calling for a ceasefire to halt the loss of life in Gaza and to resume humanitarian assistance. Macron argued that the idea of total war was counterproductive, as it jeopardised the hostages’ safety and only worsened the humanitarian crisis.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-defence-secretary-pete-hegseth-calls-rare-urgent-meeting-of-all-generals-no-one-knows-why-1758813667064">US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth calls rare, urgent meeting of all Generals - No one knows why</a>&nbsp;Macron also framed the recognition of Palestine as a means to isolate Hamas. He pointed out that since the recognition, the Palestinian Authority had condemned the October 7th attacks, called for Hamas’s demilitarisation, and begun internal reforms. He also questioned the effectiveness of Israel’s military operations in Gaza, noting that despite heavy strikes against Hamas, the group remains largely intact. The French president acknowledged Israel’s military successes but argued that these alone wouldn’t eliminate Hamas. He warned that the continuation of total warfare would only result in more civilian casualties without achieving the desired military objective.<h2>See the video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">&#39;Israel were able to get rid of the heads of terrorist organizations… but today there are just as many fighters as before&#39; — Macron He added that Israel lost credibility in the region and total war costs civilian lives, but it is not bringing security <a href="https://t.co/P6v2l1O9HD">pic.twitter.com/P6v2l1O9HD</a>&mdash; RT (@RT_com) <a href="https://twitter.com/RT_com/status/1971179600718987511?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Macron also criticised Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, asserting that the hostages’ fate and the well-being of Gaza’s civilian population should not be left in the hands of those whose priorities seemed to lie elsewhere. He suggested that Netanyahu’s primary concern wasn’t the hostages’ release, citing the continued military actions against Gaza as evidence. Macron expressed his intention to push the United States, the country with the power to exert significant pressure on Israel, to influence a change in Israeli policy. If the US failed to act, he warned that European countries would need to consider sanctions against Israel as a means of ensuring progress. “The one country with very concrete means to exert pressure”&nbsp;–&nbsp;to pressure Israel into changing course. Failing that, he said EU countries would have to press ahead with sanctions against Israel,” Macron was quoted as saying to France24.

'Will push US to...': After Palestine recognition, Macron calls for sanctions on Israel if...

France President Emmanuel Macron defended France's decision to recognise Palestine as a state. He emphasised that France’s stance has remained consistent, stressing support for a two-state solution. Macron rejected claims that the recognition was merely symbolic, insisting that the move was part of a broader strategy to initiate a process that could lead to peace. He highlighted two main goals for the ongoing situation: the first, securing the release of hostages held by Hamas, and the second, calling for a ceasefire to halt the loss of life in Gaza and to resume humanitarian assistance. Macron argued that the idea of total war was counterproductive, as it jeopardised the hostages’ safety and only worsened the humanitarian crisis. Also Read: US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth calls rare, urgent meeting of all Generals - No one knows why Macron also framed the recognition of Palestine as a means to isolate Hamas. He pointed out that since the recognition, the Palestinian Authority had condemned the October 7th attacks, called for Hamas’s demilitarisation, and begun internal reforms. He also questioned the effectiveness of Israel’s military operations in Gaza, noting that despite heavy strikes against Hamas, the group remains largely intact. The French president acknowledged Israel’s military successes but argued that these alone wouldn’t eliminate Hamas. He warned that the continuation of total warfare would only result in more civilian casualties without achieving the desired military objective. See the video here

Emmanuel Macron backs Palestine recognition, urges ceasefire, hostage release, criticises Benjamin Netanyahu, and calls for US action or possible EU sanctions on Israel

French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday (Sep 24) poked fun at US President Donald Trump's Nobel Peace Prize dream, challenging him to strong-arm Israel into stopping its war on Gaza. In an interview with a French channel, Macron also defended his country's decision to recognise the Palestinian state, while refuting Trump's assertion that it was a "reward" for Palestinian militants Hamas.<h2>Macron takes a dig at Trump?</h2>Talking to French channel BFMTV, Emmanuel Macron addressed Trump's repeated desire to win a Nobel Peace Prize and called on the POTUS to put pressure on Israel and its President Benjamin Netanyahu to get the award.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-warns-un-against-letting-survival-of-the-fittest-define-world-order-a-dig-at-trump-1758674204290">Macron warns UN against letting 'survival of the fittest' define world order. A dig at Trump's 'America First' vision?</a>"I see a US president who is active, who wants peace… who wants the Nobel Peace Prize," said Macron, adding that the Nobel Peace Prize was possible only "if you stop this war". Incidentally, just hours earlier, Trump, in his address to the UNGA, had once again insisted that he "ended seven un-endable wars," a feat for which he has repeatedly said he deserved a Nobel.The French president also noted that it was necessary to "put pressure" on the government of Israel so that it would "stop this war and obtain the release of the 48 hostages". "It’s possible, nothing is pre-ordained," he insisted.Defending France's decision to recognise the Palestinian state, Macron said that it was a way to "isolate" Hamas, because it bolsters the Palestinian Authority. Macron's statement comes amid increasing international frustration over Trump dragging his feet in sanctioning Russia or putting pressure on Israel, forcing Netanyahu's hand into ending military operations in Gaza.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/white-house-claims-un-staffers-tried-to-humiliate-trump-with-escalatorgate-at-unga-un-replies-1758682328512">White House claims UN staffers tried to humiliate Trump with 'escalatorgate' at UNGA; UN replies</a><h2>What did Trump say about Macron's comments?</h2>According to a Politico report, when asked about Macron's comments on his desire for a Nobel Peace Prize, Trump only said that it was "altogether" about ending war in Gaza and Ukraine. In his speech, he had said, "We have to stop the war in Gaza immediately", and that he was deeply engaged in trying to secure a ceasefire.For months, Trump has been insisting that he should get the coveted Nobel Peace Prize — an honour bestowed upon four of his predecessors, including Barack Obama. Recently, speaking at the American Cornerstone Institute Founder's Dinner on Saturday (Sep 21), he said he should be honoured with seven Nobel Prizes, one each for "ending seven wars". &nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron has issued a challenge to US President Donald Trump, suggesting that if he wanted to win the Nobel Peace Prize, he must first…

French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday (Sep 24) poked fun at US President Donald Trump's Nobel Peace Prize dream, challenging him to strong-arm Israel into stopping its war on Gaza. In an interview with a French channel, Macron also defended his country's decision to recognise the Palestinian state, while refuting Trump's assertion that it was a "reward" for Palestinian militants Hamas. Macron takes a dig at Trump? Talking to French channel BFMTV, Emmanuel Macron addressed Trump's repeated desire to win a Nobel Peace Prize and called on the POTUS to put pressure on Israel and its President Benjamin Netanyahu to get the award. Also read | Macron warns UN against letting 'survival of the fittest' define world order. A dig at Trump's 'America First' vision? "I see a US president who is active, who wants peace… who wants the Nobel Peace Prize," said Macron, adding that the Nobel Peace Prize was possible only "if you stop this war". Incidentally, just hours earlier, Trump, in his address to the UNGA, had once again insisted that he "ended seven un-endable wars," a feat for which he has repeatedly said he deserved a Nobel. The French president also noted that it was necessary to "put pressure" on the government of Israel so that it would "stop this war and obtain the release of the 48 hostages". "It’s possible, nothing is pre-ordained," he insisted. Defending France's decision to recognise the Palestinian state, Macron said that it was a way to "isolate" Hamas, because it bolsters the Palestinian Authority. Macron's statement comes amid increasing international frustration over Trump dragging his feet in sanctioning Russia or putting pressure on Israel, forcing Netanyahu's hand into ending military operations in Gaza. Also read | White House claims UN staffers tried to humiliate Trump with 'escalatorgate' at UNGA; UN replies What did Trump say about Macron's comments? According to a Politico report, when asked about Macron's comments on his desire for a Nobel Peace Prize, Trump only said that it was "altogether" about ending war in Gaza and Ukraine. In his speech, he had said, "We have to stop the war in Gaza immediately", and that he was deeply engaged in trying to secure a ceasefire. For months, Trump has been insisting that he should get the coveted Nobel Peace Prize — an honour bestowed upon four of his predecessors, including Barack Obama. Recently, speaking at the American Cornerstone Institute Founder's Dinner on Saturday (Sep 21), he said he should be honoured with seven Nobel Prizes, one each for "ending seven wars".

French President Emmanuel Macron has issued a challenge to US President Donald Trump, suggesting that if he wanted to win the Nobel Peace Prize, he must first…

Emmanuel Macron pokes fun at Trump's Nobel Peace Prize dream, says you'll get one only when...

French President Emmanuel Macron used his address at the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday (Sep 23) to draw a stark contrast with US President Donald Trump's "America First" vision of international politics, urging countries not to fall into a "survival of the fittest" mindset. Macron, who spoke just hours after Trump railed against the UN and boasted of US power, cast himself as a defender of multilateralism and international law. He said the biggest danger facing the global order today is the rise of selfishness among powerful nations. “That is the major risk of our time... a risk of seeing the survival of the fittest,” he said. “It is the risk of seeing the selfishness of a few prevail.”<h2>'Anti-game of some people'</h2>Macron argued that growing divisions were paralysing the international system, leaving conflicts unresolved and making it harder to tackle global challenges like climate change, pandemics, and war. “The anti-game of some people makes it almost impossible for our organisation to be collectively effective,” he warned. “They’re playing against us. We need to work together to get back to that collective multilateralism,” he added.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-poor-young-people-killed-colombia-at-unga-demands-criminal-case-against-trump-over-deadly-strikes-on-venezuelan-boats-1758671634022">‘Poor young people killed’: Colombia at UNGA demands criminal case against Trump. Here's why</a>Macron marked the UN's 80th anniversary by calling for a return to the spirit of cooperation that inspired its founding after World War II. “The world's complexity is not a reason to throw in the towel on our principles and our ambitions,” he said. “To a certain extent, ours is a moment of paradox. We need more than ever before to restore the spirit of cooperation that prevailed 80 years ago.”Future generations must have the “right to dream” insisted the French president.<h2>Macron defends France's support of Ukraine</h2>The French president also addressed two major crises head-on. He defended France’s continued support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s invasion, welcoming what he described as a shift in Trump’s tone on Kyiv. “I welcome the fact that the president of the USA believes in Ukraine's ability,” Macron said.He also spotlighted his government’s decision this week to formally recognise a Palestinian state, calling on other nations to follow suit. Peace in the Middle East, he argued, requires reciprocal recognition: “Palestinian state, which is demilitarised [and] which recognises Israel, [and] an Israeli state, which recognises the state of Palestine.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-blasts-united-nations-for-being-ineffective-says-empty-words-don-t-help-end-wars-1758639253574">Trump blasts UN for being ineffective, says ‘empty words don’t help end wars’</a><h2>ICJ and ICC's authority must be respected, insists Macron at UNGA</h2>Macron pressed countries to back the authority of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ), saying their rulings are essential to preventing “might is right” from replacing the rule of law. “Let us support the ICC fight against impunity. Let us allow the orders of the ICJ to be implemented; their rulings be upheld,” he said in what was a clear dig at several countries that have recently dismissed ICC arrest orders against Russian and Israeli officials for their actions in the war in Ukraine and Gaza. Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu and Russian President Vladimir Putin are among the officials who have ICC arrest warrants issued against them.&nbsp;

In his address at the United Nations General Assembly, French President Emmanuel Macron drew a sharp contrast with President Donald Trump's "America First" vision, urging nations to reject a "survival of the fittest" mindset and embrace a return to multilateralism.

French President Emmanuel Macron used his address at the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday (Sep 23) to draw a stark contrast with US President Donald Trump's "America First" vision of international politics, urging countries not to fall into a "survival of the fittest" mindset. Macron, who spoke just hours after Trump railed against the UN and boasted of US power, cast himself as a defender of multilateralism and international law. He said the biggest danger facing the global order today is the rise of selfishness among powerful nations. “That is the major risk of our time... a risk of seeing the survival of the fittest,” he said. “It is the risk of seeing the selfishness of a few prevail.” 'Anti-game of some people' Macron argued that growing divisions were paralysing the international system, leaving conflicts unresolved and making it harder to tackle global challenges like climate change, pandemics, and war. “The anti-game of some people makes it almost impossible for our organisation to be collectively effective,” he warned. “They’re playing against us. We need to work together to get back to that collective multilateralism,” he added. Also read | ‘Poor young people killed’: Colombia at UNGA demands criminal case against Trump. Here's why Macron marked the UN's 80th anniversary by calling for a return to the spirit of cooperation that inspired its founding after World War II. “The world's complexity is not a reason to throw in the towel on our principles and our ambitions,” he said. “To a certain extent, ours is a moment of paradox. We need more than ever before to restore the spirit of cooperation that prevailed 80 years ago.” Future generations must have the “right to dream” insisted the French president. Macron defends France's support of Ukraine The French president also addressed two major crises head-on. He defended France’s continued support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s invasion, welcoming what he described as a shift in Trump’s tone on Kyiv. “I welcome the fact that the president of the USA believes in Ukraine's ability,” Macron said. He also spotlighted his government’s decision this week to formally recognise a Palestinian state, calling on other nations to follow suit. Peace in the Middle East, he argued, requires reciprocal recognition: “Palestinian state, which is demilitarised [and] which recognises Israel, [and] an Israeli state, which recognises the state of Palestine.” Also read | Trump blasts UN for being ineffective, says ‘empty words don’t help end wars’ ICJ and ICC's authority must be respected, insists Macron at UNGA Macron pressed countries to back the authority of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ), saying their rulings are essential to preventing “might is right” from replacing the rule of law. “Let us support the ICC fight against impunity. Let us allow the orders of the ICJ to be implemented; their rulings be upheld,” he said in what was a clear dig at several countries that have recently dismissed ICC arrest orders against Russian and Israeli officials for their actions in the war in Ukraine and Gaza. Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu and Russian President Vladimir Putin are among the officials who have ICC arrest warrants issued against them.

In his address at the United Nations General Assembly, French President Emmanuel Macron drew a sharp contrast with President Donald Trump's "America First" vision, urging nations to reject a "survival of the fittest" mindset and embrace a return to multilateralism.

Macron warns UN against letting 'survival of the fittest' define world order. A dig at Trump's 'America First' vision?

A nationwide protests was organised in France on Thursday (Sep 18) to oppose President Emmanuel Macron's austerity policies amid political instability in the country. Over 80,000 police and gendarmes have been mobilised across France, supported by drones, armoured vehicles, and water cannons. The interior ministry projected that 600,000 to 900,000 people would join the nationwide protests. By Thursday noon, around 76,500 had participated, with Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau noting the demonstrations were "less intense than anticipated," AFP reported.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/france-to-deploy-three-rafale-fighter-jets-to-help-protect-polish-airspace-macron-says-1757643632749">France to deploy three Rafale fighter jets to help protect Polish airspace, Macron says</a><h2>Why are the protesters angry</h2>Protesters disrupted public transport and schools were closed down as they took to the streets. Clashes were also reported with the police. Police in Paris and Marseille used tear gas to disperse protesters. In Lyon, a France TV journalist and a police officer were injured during clashes. In Lille, protesters blocked bus depots. "The aim is to show the government that we're here, that we're fed up with being taxed like crazy," a protester was quoted by AFP.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-macron-can-resign-or-he-will-be-impeached-french-government-falls-after-pm-loses-confidence-vote-what-s-happening-1757351910555">'Macron can resign or he will be impeached': French government falls after PM loses confidence vote - What's happening</a><h2>Why people are angry at Macron?</h2>Public anger toward President Emmanuel Macron has been building since early 2023, when his government pushed through a deeply unpopular pension reform—raising the retirement age—without a parliamentary vote. This sparked months of protests and unrest. Now, with only 18 months left in office and facing record-low approval ratings, Macron is seen by many as the root cause of the country’s political and social turmoil. Critics like Jean-Luc Mélenchon have openly blamed him for the current chaos, saying his actions have directly led to the unrest.&nbsp;A draft 44-billion-euro ($52-billion) cost-saving budget by the French government has been a major reason that former Prime Minister Francois Bayrou faced massive outrage. Now, the new PM Sebastien Lecornu is also facing the same heat. More so as Lecornu is former defence minister and close Macron ally. Authorities fear further escalation, with concerns that violent groups could hijack protests—prompting police to urge central Paris businesses to close during demonstrations. An earlier protest on September 10 fell short of its goal to "block everything," but the latest unrest suggests Macron’s policies continue to inflame tensions nationwide.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/french-government-falls-after-prime-minister-francois-bayrou-loses-confidence-vote-1757354713736">French Government Falls After Prime Minister Francois Bayrou Loses Confidence Vote</a>

France saw nationwide protests and strikes on Sept 18 against Macron’s austerity policies. Public transport, schools, and pharmacies were disrupted. Over 76,000 protested by noon, with clashes in Paris, Lyon, and Marseille. Anger grows over cost-cutting and tax burdens.

A nationwide protests was organised in France on Thursday (Sep 18) to oppose President Emmanuel Macron's austerity policies amid political instability in the country. Over 80,000 police and gendarmes have been mobilised across France, supported by drones, armoured vehicles, and water cannons. The interior ministry projected that 600,000 to 900,000 people would join the nationwide protests. By Thursday noon, around 76,500 had participated, with Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau noting the demonstrations were "less intense than anticipated," AFP reported. Read More | France to deploy three Rafale fighter jets to help protect Polish airspace, Macron says Why are the protesters angry Protesters disrupted public transport and schools were closed down as they took to the streets. Clashes were also reported with the police. Police in Paris and Marseille used tear gas to disperse protesters. In Lyon, a France TV journalist and a police officer were injured during clashes. In Lille, protesters blocked bus depots. "The aim is to show the government that we're here, that we're fed up with being taxed like crazy," a protester was quoted by AFP. Read More | 'Macron can resign or he will be impeached': French government falls after PM loses confidence vote - What's happening Why people are angry at Macron? Public anger toward President Emmanuel Macron has been building since early 2023, when his government pushed through a deeply unpopular pension reform—raising the retirement age—without a parliamentary vote. This sparked months of protests and unrest. Now, with only 18 months left in office and facing record-low approval ratings, Macron is seen by many as the root cause of the country’s political and social turmoil. Critics like Jean-Luc Mélenchon have openly blamed him for the current chaos, saying his actions have directly led to the unrest. A draft 44-billion-euro ($52-billion) cost-saving budget by the French government has been a major reason that former Prime Minister Francois Bayrou faced massive outrage. Now, the new PM Sebastien Lecornu is also facing the same heat. More so as Lecornu is former defence minister and close Macron ally. Authorities fear further escalation, with concerns that violent groups could hijack protests—prompting police to urge central Paris businesses to close during demonstrations. An earlier protest on September 10 fell short of its goal to "block everything," but the latest unrest suggests Macron’s policies continue to inflame tensions nationwide. Read More | French Government Falls After Prime Minister Francois Bayrou Loses Confidence Vote

France saw nationwide protests and strikes on Sep 18 against Macron’s austerity policies. Public transport, schools, and pharmacies were disrupted. Over 76,000 protested by noon, with clashes in Paris, Lyon, and Marseille. Anger grows over cost-cutting and tax burdens.

'Macron resign': Massive protest in France amid political instability, protesters clash with police - What's happening

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is all set to visit the United States to meet US President Donald Trump to further discuss the war in Ukraine. This comes after Trump met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday in Alaska. Zelensky will be accompanied by several European leaders to hold a meeting with Trump on Monday (August 18).&nbsp;The US described the Trump-Putin Alaska meeting as showing “great progress” but admitted no breakthrough was reached to end the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;Following their meeting, Trump called Zelensky and European leaders to brief them about his meeting with Putin. The Ukrainian president said that he had a “long and substantive” call with Trump, joined by European leaders, where “the main points” were covered.&nbsp;Later, Zelensky confirmed that he would travel to the US on Monday “to discuss all of the details regarding ending the killing and the war.”<h2>List of European leaders joining Trump-Zelensky</h2><ul><li>UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer</li><li>Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni</li><li>French President Emmanuel Macron</li><li>German Chancellor Friedrich Merz</li><li>Finnish President Alexander Stubb</li><li>European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen&nbsp;</li><li>Nato secretary general Mark Rutte</li></ul>European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen shared a post on X, saying that she will be meeting Trump along with other European leaders on Monday at the request of Ukrainian President Zelensky.&nbsp;She added that she will welcome Zelensky in Brussels later today and will also participate in a meeting of European leaders part of the "coalition of the willing".&nbsp;Downing Street confirmed that Keir Starmer will also join Zelensky for a meeting with Trump. Moreover, Germany’s chancellor, Friedrich Merz, visit was confirmed by the federal government. The chancellor's spokesperson said, "The trip will serve as an exchange of information with US President Donald Trump following his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska."&nbsp;"The talks will address, among other things, security guarantees, territorial issues, and continued support for Ukraine in its defence against Russian aggression. This includes maintaining the pressure of sanctions," the spokesperson added.&nbsp;While confirming Macron's visit, the French presidency office said the leaders will pursue “coordination between the Europeans and the United States with the goal of coming to a just and lasting peace that preserves the vital interests of Ukraine and the security of Europe.”&nbsp;A few other leaders might also join the two leaders on Monday at the White House.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen shared a post on X, saying that she will be meeting Trump along with other European leaders on Monday at the request of Ukrainian President Zelensky.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is all set to visit the United States to meet US President Donald Trump to further discuss the war in Ukraine. This comes after Trump met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday in Alaska. Zelensky will be accompanied by several European leaders to hold a meeting with Trump on Monday (August 18). The US described the Trump-Putin Alaska meeting as showing “great progress” but admitted no breakthrough was reached to end the war in Ukraine. Following their meeting, Trump called Zelensky and European leaders to brief them about his meeting with Putin. The Ukrainian president said that he had a “long and substantive” call with Trump, joined by European leaders, where “the main points” were covered. Later, Zelensky confirmed that he would travel to the US on Monday “to discuss all of the details regarding ending the killing and the war.” List of European leaders joining Trump-Zelensky UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni French President Emmanuel Macron German Chancellor Friedrich Merz Finnish President Alexander Stubb European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen Nato secretary general Mark Rutte European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen shared a post on X, saying that she will be meeting Trump along with other European leaders on Monday at the request of Ukrainian President Zelensky. She added that she will welcome Zelensky in Brussels later today and will also participate in a meeting of European leaders part of the "coalition of the willing". Downing Street confirmed that Keir Starmer will also join Zelensky for a meeting with Trump. Moreover, Germany’s chancellor, Friedrich Merz, visit was confirmed by the federal government. The chancellor's spokesperson said, "The trip will serve as an exchange of information with US President Donald Trump following his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska." "The talks will address, among other things, security guarantees, territorial issues, and continued support for Ukraine in its defence against Russian aggression. This includes maintaining the pressure of sanctions," the spokesperson added. While confirming Macron's visit, the French presidency office said the leaders will pursue “coordination between the Europeans and the United States with the goal of coming to a just and lasting peace that preserves the vital interests of Ukraine and the security of Europe.” A few other leaders might also join the two leaders on Monday at the White House.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen shared a post on X, saying that she will be meeting Trump along with other European leaders on Monday at the request of Ukrainian President Zelensky.

Who all will join Zelensky and Trump at White House after Putin Alaska summit - List of European leaders inside

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Wednesday that only Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy can negotiate a land deal with Russia to end Moscow's war against&nbsp;the nation. He further said that he hopes that a meeting between Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, and Zelenskyy could be held in Europe in a "neutral country acceptable to all parties". He also called for a robust and lasting peace in Ukraine.&nbsp;"Territorial questions concerning Ukraine can be, and will be, negotiated only by the Ukrainian president," Macron told reporters after a telephone conversation with US President Donald Trump, who will meet his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Friday.&nbsp;Emmanuel Macron said that the peace deal must address both territorial issues and long-term security guarantees.&nbsp;Earlier today, Volodymyr Zelensky said that sanctions must be imposed on Russia if it doesn't agree to&nbsp;an "immediate ceasefire" in Ukraine during Vladimir Putin's meeting with Donald Trump in Alaska this week.&nbsp;In a call with Trump and European leaders, the embattled President of Ukraine said: “We hope that the central topic at the meeting will be a ceasefire. An immediate ceasefire”.&nbsp;"Sanctions must be in place and must be strengthened if Russia does not agree to a ceasefire," Zelensky added, speaking alongside German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin.&nbsp;Donald Trump today said that he wants to arrange a&nbsp;trilateral&nbsp;meeting involving the Ukrainian President.&nbsp;In March, Ukraine agreed to a ceasefire proposal promulgated by the United States. Russia, however, rejected the proposal.&nbsp;He said today that Putin doesn't want peace and that Moscow is putting pressure on the Ukrainian front ahead of the meeting in Alaska.&nbsp;"I have told my colleagues, the US president, and our European friends, that Putin does not want peace," Zelensky added.&nbsp;The UK also ruled out any changing of borders by force.&nbsp;"The prime minister was clear that our support for Ukraine is unwavering. International borders must not be changed by force, and Ukraine must have robust and credible security guarantees to defend its territorial integrity as part of any deal," read a statement.

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Wednesday that only Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky can negotiate a land deal with Russia to end Moscow's war against the nation. He also called for a robust and lasting peace in Ukraine.

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Wednesday that only Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy can negotiate a land deal with Russia to end Moscow's war against the nation. He further said that he hopes that a meeting between Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, and Zelenskyy could be held in Europe in a "neutral country acceptable to all parties". He also called for a robust and lasting peace in Ukraine. "Territorial questions concerning Ukraine can be, and will be, negotiated only by the Ukrainian president," Macron told reporters after a telephone conversation with US President Donald Trump, who will meet his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Friday. Emmanuel Macron said that the peace deal must address both territorial issues and long-term security guarantees. Earlier today, Volodymyr Zelensky said that sanctions must be imposed on Russia if it doesn't agree to an "immediate ceasefire" in Ukraine during Vladimir Putin's meeting with Donald Trump in Alaska this week. In a call with Trump and European leaders, the embattled President of Ukraine said: “We hope that the central topic at the meeting will be a ceasefire. An immediate ceasefire”. "Sanctions must be in place and must be strengthened if Russia does not agree to a ceasefire," Zelensky added, speaking alongside German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin. Donald Trump today said that he wants to arrange a trilateral meeting involving the Ukrainian President. In March, Ukraine agreed to a ceasefire proposal promulgated by the United States. Russia, however, rejected the proposal. He said today that Putin doesn't want peace and that Moscow is putting pressure on the Ukrainian front ahead of the meeting in Alaska. "I have told my colleagues, the US president, and our European friends, that Putin does not want peace," Zelensky added. The UK also ruled out any changing of borders by force. "The prime minister was clear that our support for Ukraine is unwavering. International borders must not be changed by force, and Ukraine must have robust and credible security guarantees to defend its territorial integrity as part of any deal," read a statement.

The UK also backed Ukraine, saying international borders must not be changed through force.

Trump, Putin, Zelenskyy talks can take place in Europe: Macron

President Volodymyr Zelensky has stepped up diplomatic efforts as the United States and Russia prepare for talks without Ukraine. On Saturday, he said he spoke to French President Emmanuel Macron about the “diplomatic situation” in Ukraine. “I spoke with President of France @EmmanuelMacron. I am grateful for the support. We exchanged views on the diplomatic situation,” Zelensky posted on X. He added that “it is truly important that the Russians do not succeed in deceiving anyone again.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-war-must-end-ukraine-s-zelensky-calls-for-lasting-peace-after-call-with-trump-1754505061359">'War must end': Ukraine’s Zelensky calls for ‘lasting peace’ after call with Trump</a><h2>Call with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer</h2>Zelensky also urged Ukraine’s partners to take “clear steps” towards a lasting peace during a phone call with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. “Clear steps are needed, as well as maximum coordination between us and our partners. We value the determination of the United Kingdom, the United States, and all our partners to end the war,” he wrote on social media.<h2>Dialogue with Denmark and Estonia</h2>The Ukrainian president also held discussions with Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. “These days, diplomatic activity is extremely high. However, we see no changes in Russia’s position – the Russians still refuse to stop the killings, still invest in the war, and still push the idea of ‘exchanging’ Ukrainian territory for Ukrainian territory,” he said, warning that such ideas would only put Russia in a stronger position to resume fighting.Zelensky later spoke with Estonia’s Prime Minister Kristen Michal, discussing Ukraine’s EU membership talks and security issues. He stressed that “unity must work” and there should be “no divisions or injustice” for Ukraine and Moldova in their path towards the European Union.<h2>Strong message before Trump–Putin meeting</h2>His diplomatic push comes after Washington and Moscow announced a high-profile summit to be held in Alaska on 15 August between Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump. Trump suggested there could be “some swapping of territories to the betterment of both” Russia and Ukraine, without elaborating. “Ukrainians will not give their land to the occupier,” Zelensky said shortly after, insisting that “any decisions without Ukraine are also decisions against peace” and “cannot be ended without us.”<h2>War still far from resolution</h2>Since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, tens of thousands have been killed and millions displaced. Despite three rounds of talks this year, no agreement has been reached. Putin has so far rejected calls for a ceasefire. Zelensky said Ukraine is “ready for real decisions that can bring peace” but emphasised it must be a “dignified peace.”The Alaska summit will be the first meeting between sitting US and Russian presidents since Joe Biden met Putin in 2021, months before the war began. Zelensky noted the venue was “very far away from this war” while the Kremlin described it as “logical” given Alaska’s position near both nations’ borders. Moscow has also invited Trump to visit Russia in the future.

President Zelensky intensified diplomacy, speaking with France's Macron and UK’s Starmer, urging coordinated action and clear steps toward peace as US-Russia talks proceed without Ukraine’s direct involvement.

President Volodymyr Zelensky has stepped up diplomatic efforts as the United States and Russia prepare for talks without Ukraine. On Saturday, he said he spoke to French President Emmanuel Macron about the “diplomatic situation” in Ukraine. “I spoke with President of France @EmmanuelMacron. I am grateful for the support. We exchanged views on the diplomatic situation,” Zelensky posted on X. He added that “it is truly important that the Russians do not succeed in deceiving anyone again.” Also read: 'War must end': Ukraine’s Zelensky calls for ‘lasting peace’ after call with Trump Call with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer Zelensky also urged Ukraine’s partners to take “clear steps” towards a lasting peace during a phone call with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. “Clear steps are needed, as well as maximum coordination between us and our partners. We value the determination of the United Kingdom, the United States, and all our partners to end the war,” he wrote on social media. Dialogue with Denmark and Estonia The Ukrainian president also held discussions with Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. “These days, diplomatic activity is extremely high. However, we see no changes in Russia’s position – the Russians still refuse to stop the killings, still invest in the war, and still push the idea of ‘exchanging’ Ukrainian territory for Ukrainian territory,” he said, warning that such ideas would only put Russia in a stronger position to resume fighting. Zelensky later spoke with Estonia’s Prime Minister Kristen Michal, discussing Ukraine’s EU membership talks and security issues. He stressed that “unity must work” and there should be “no divisions or injustice” for Ukraine and Moldova in their path towards the European Union. Strong message before Trump–Putin meeting His diplomatic push comes after Washington and Moscow announced a high-profile summit to be held in Alaska on 15 August between Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump. Trump suggested there could be “some swapping of territories to the betterment of both” Russia and Ukraine, without elaborating. “Ukrainians will not give their land to the occupier,” Zelensky said shortly after, insisting that “any decisions without Ukraine are also decisions against peace” and “cannot be ended without us.” War still far from resolution Since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, tens of thousands have been killed and millions displaced. Despite three rounds of talks this year, no agreement has been reached. Putin has so far rejected calls for a ceasefire. Zelensky said Ukraine is “ready for real decisions that can bring peace” but emphasised it must be a “dignified peace.” The Alaska summit will be the first meeting between sitting US and Russian presidents since Joe Biden met Putin in 2021, months before the war began. Zelensky noted the venue was “very far away from this war” while the Kremlin described it as “logical” given Alaska’s position near both nations’ borders. Moscow has also invited Trump to visit Russia in the future.

President Zelensky intensified diplomacy, speaking with France's Macron and UK’s Starmer, urging coordinated action and clear steps toward peace as US-Russia talks proceed without Ukraine’s direct involvement.

'Important that Russians don't succeed in deceiving': Zelensky is racing to rally allies ahead of Trump–Putin talks - Here why

French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte Macron have filed a US defamation suit against rightwing influencer Candace Owens, who has claimed that France's first lady "is actually a man". The 218-page lawsuit, which was filed in Delaware on Wednesday (July 23), alleges Owens had published "outrageous, defamatory and far-fetched fictions", among which was that Brigitte Macron was born male as Jean-Michel Trogneux.&nbsp;Owens has further claimed that Macron and the French president's wife are blood relatives and Emmanuel Macron is either the product of a CIA human experiment or "a similar government mind control programme", as per the Macrons' court document.&nbsp;The lawsuit is an unusual instance of a current world leader suing an online influencer personally for content, although it follows days after Donald Trump sued the Wall Street Journal and its holding companies over a report of a letter that the US president allegedly wrote to Jeffrey Epstein.&nbsp;The Macrons have a steep legal hurdle to overcome, as US defamation law mandates that public figures establish "actual malice", i.e., that the person knew or had a reckless disregard whether the information was true or not. The Macrons are asking for a jury trial and damages punitive.&nbsp;“The principle here is truth,” the Macrons’ lawyer Thomas Clare, co-founder of defamation specialist firm Clare Locke, was quoted saying to the Financial Times. “They believe it’s important to stand up for themselves . . . Owens has had multiple opportunities to do the right thing and in response she has only mocked them.” &nbsp;He confirmed that the French president and first lady were prepared to fly to Delaware to appear in court personally. “Because Ms Owens systematically reaffirmed these falsehoods in response to each of our attorneys’ repeated requests for a retraction, we ultimately concluded that referring the matter to a court of law was the only remaining avenue,” the Macrons said in a statement. &nbsp;Owens' spokesperson said she would be answering on her podcast on Wednesday. The lawsuit says the Macrons have "suffered substantial reputational damage" and have spent “considerable sums of money to correct the public record.”&nbsp;The defamation case is focused on Becoming Brigitte, an eight-part series Owens published this year, and social media podcasts associated with it. In their complaint, the Macrons allege Owens has "used [a] false statement" regarding Brigitte's sex "to promote her standalone platform, gain fame and generate revenue". They claim she "ignored repeated attempts by the Macrons to communicate".Becoming Brigitte has over 2.3mn YouTube views.&nbsp;“Owens has dissected their appearance, their marriage, their friends, their family, and their personal history — twisting it all into a grotesque narrative designed to inflame and degrade,” the Macrons said in their filing. “The result is relentless bullying on a worldwide scale.”

Emmanuel Macron, wife file lawsuit against Candace Owens over false claims of French president’s wife is a man

French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte Macron have filed a US defamation suit against rightwing influencer Candace Owens, who has claimed that France's first lady "is actually a man". The 218-page lawsuit, which was filed in Delaware on Wednesday (July 23), alleges Owens had published "outrageous, defamatory and far-fetched fictions", among which was that Brigitte Macron was born male as Jean-Michel Trogneux. Owens has further claimed that Macron and the French president's wife are blood relatives and Emmanuel Macron is either the product of a CIA human experiment or "a similar government mind control programme", as per the Macrons' court document. The lawsuit is an unusual instance of a current world leader suing an online influencer personally for content, although it follows days after Donald Trump sued the Wall Street Journal and its holding companies over a report of a letter that the US president allegedly wrote to Jeffrey Epstein. The Macrons have a steep legal hurdle to overcome, as US defamation law mandates that public figures establish "actual malice", i.e., that the person knew or had a reckless disregard whether the information was true or not. The Macrons are asking for a jury trial and damages punitive. “The principle here is truth,” the Macrons’ lawyer Thomas Clare, co-founder of defamation specialist firm Clare Locke, was quoted saying to the Financial Times. “They believe it’s important to stand up for themselves . . . Owens has had multiple opportunities to do the right thing and in response she has only mocked them.” He confirmed that the French president and first lady were prepared to fly to Delaware to appear in court personally. “Because Ms Owens systematically reaffirmed these falsehoods in response to each of our attorneys’ repeated requests for a retraction, we ultimately concluded that referring the matter to a court of law was the only remaining avenue,” the Macrons said in a statement. Owens' spokesperson said she would be answering on her podcast on Wednesday. The lawsuit says the Macrons have "suffered substantial reputational damage" and have spent “considerable sums of money to correct the public record.” The defamation case is focused on Becoming Brigitte, an eight-part series Owens published this year, and social media podcasts associated with it. In their complaint, the Macrons allege Owens has "used [a] false statement" regarding Brigitte's sex "to promote her standalone platform, gain fame and generate revenue". They claim she "ignored repeated attempts by the Macrons to communicate". Becoming Brigitte has over 2.3mn YouTube views. “Owens has dissected their appearance, their marriage, their friends, their family, and their personal history — twisting it all into a grotesque narrative designed to inflame and degrade,” the Macrons said in their filing. “The result is relentless bullying on a worldwide scale.”

Owens has also said the French president and his wife are blood relatives and that Emmanuel Macron is a product of a CIA human experiment, as per Macrons’ court filing

Macron, wife file lawsuit against influencer Candace Owens over claim of French first lady being born male

Russian President Vladimir Putin and his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, held their first known telephone conversation for the first time in almost three years, having last talked in 2022, the Kremlin said on Tuesday.“Vladimir Putin held a telephone conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron,” the Kremlin said in a statement, making it their first such conversation since September 2022, several months after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. “Vladimir Putin’s conversation with Emmanuel Macron was substantive,” the Kremlin press service reported.&nbsp;In the two-hour phone call, Macron urged Putin to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine “as soon as possible”.Macron “emphasised France’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity” and “called for the establishment, as soon as possible, of a ceasefire and the launch of negotiations between Ukraine and Russia for a solid and lasting settlement of the conflict,” the Elysee Palace said in a statement.&nbsp;<h2>Macron, Putin discuss crisis around Iran’s nuclear programme</h2>&nbsp;The two leaders also exchanged views on the situation in the Middle East in the context of the confrontation between Iran and Israel, as well as the US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.“The leaders spoke in favour of resolving the crisis around Iran’s nuclear programme, as well as other differences in the Middle East, exclusively through political and diplomatic means,” the Kremlin said.&nbsp;They noted the responsibility of Russia and France in maintaining peace in the Middle East and preserving the nuclear non-proliferation regime. The leaders also stressed the importance of respecting Tehran’s legitimate right to peaceful use of nuclear energy. &nbsp;Macron’s office said the French president also stressed the need for Iran to comply with its obligations under the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and to cooperate fully with the International Atomic Energy Agency.Both leaders reportedly agreed to stay in contact for potential coordination of positions.On Iran, “the two presidents decided to coordinate their efforts and to speak soon in order to follow up together on this issue,” the French presidency added.&nbsp;<h2>Ukraine War result of Western policy, says Putin&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;On Ukraine, Putin reiterated his position that the war is the result of Western policy, claiming the West ignored Russia’s interests, built anti-Russian infrastructure in Ukraine, and is still arming Kyiv, which he said has been prolonging the fighting.Putin expressed alleged readiness for negotiations, but only on conditions that take into account “new territorial realities” and address what he calls the “root causes of the conflict.”&nbsp;“Western states have ignored Russia’s security interests for many years, created an anti-Russian foothold in Ukraine, condoned violations of the rights of Russian-speaking residents, and are now pursuing a policy of prolonging military operations, feeding the Kyiv regime with various modern weapons,” the Kremlin reported Putin as saying.

In the two-hour phone call, Macron urged Putin to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine “as soon as possible”. Macron “emphasised France’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity” and called for a lasting settlement of the conflict.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, held their first known telephone conversation for the first time in almost three years, having last talked in 2022, the Kremlin said on Tuesday. “Vladimir Putin held a telephone conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron,” the Kremlin said in a statement, making it their first such conversation since September 2022, several months after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. “Vladimir Putin’s conversation with Emmanuel Macron was substantive,” the Kremlin press service reported. In the two-hour phone call, Macron urged Putin to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine “as soon as possible”. Macron “emphasised France’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity” and “called for the establishment, as soon as possible, of a ceasefire and the launch of negotiations between Ukraine and Russia for a solid and lasting settlement of the conflict,” the Elysee Palace said in a statement. Macron, Putin discuss crisis around Iran’s nuclear programme The two leaders also exchanged views on the situation in the Middle East in the context of the confrontation between Iran and Israel, as well as the US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. “The leaders spoke in favour of resolving the crisis around Iran’s nuclear programme, as well as other differences in the Middle East, exclusively through political and diplomatic means,” the Kremlin said. They noted the responsibility of Russia and France in maintaining peace in the Middle East and preserving the nuclear non-proliferation regime. The leaders also stressed the importance of respecting Tehran’s legitimate right to peaceful use of nuclear energy. Macron’s office said the French president also stressed the need for Iran to comply with its obligations under the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and to cooperate fully with the International Atomic Energy Agency. Both leaders reportedly agreed to stay in contact for potential coordination of positions. On Iran, “the two presidents decided to coordinate their efforts and to speak soon in order to follow up together on this issue,” the French presidency added. Ukraine War result of Western policy, says Putin On Ukraine, Putin reiterated his position that the war is the result of Western policy, claiming the West ignored Russia’s interests, built anti-Russian infrastructure in Ukraine, and is still arming Kyiv, which he said has been prolonging the fighting. Putin expressed alleged readiness for negotiations, but only on conditions that take into account “new territorial realities” and address what he calls the “root causes of the conflict.” “Western states have ignored Russia’s security interests for many years, created an anti-Russian foothold in Ukraine, condoned violations of the rights of Russian-speaking residents, and are now pursuing a policy of prolonging military operations, feeding the Kyiv regime with various modern weapons,” the Kremlin reported Putin as saying.

In the two-hour phone call, Macron urged Putin to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine “as soon as possible”. Macron “emphasised France’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity” and called for a lasting settlement of the conflict.

Putin and Macron break ice, hold first phone call in nearly three years, discuss Ukraine, Iran

French President Emmanuel Macron has a message for Israel — and it's urgent. At a National Security Council meeting on Wednesday (Jun 18), Macron expressed deep concern over the "escalation" unfolding between Iran and Israel. Pointing to the mounting civilian casualties due to the increasingly reckless Israeli airstrikes, he urged Tel Aviv to end strikes on Iran that have nothing to do with nukes or missiles.<h2>What did Macron say to Israel?</h2>Addressing the National Security Council meeting, the French president "noted his concern over the current escalation, with Israeli strikes increasingly hitting targets not linked to Iran's nuclear or ballistic programme, and a mounting number of civilian victims in Iran and Israel," said his office.He said it was "necessary to urgently end these military operations, which pose significant threats to regional security", added the statement.Macron has also directed his foreign ministry to help French nationals in Iran and Israel leave the region if they wish to, added the Elysee without sharing further details.<h2>France won't just sit this one out</h2>Macron's office revealed that France, along with its European partners, was planning to suggest a negotiated solution to end the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel.To this end, Macron has tasked Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot with drafting a new initiative — alongside Germany and the UK — aimed at brokering a negotiated peace, reports AFP.The initiative with close European partners "would propose a demanding negotiated settlement to put an end to the conflict" before it spirals further. However, specific details remain sparse.Backchannel talks are already underway, according to AFP. Barrot has reportedly been in regular touch with his British and German counterparts since Israel launched massive air strikes against Iran on Friday.France, Germany, and the UK were all part of the now-faltering 2015 Iran nuclear deal. The groundbreaking deal started falling apart after the US walked away from it during President Donald Trump's first term.

Macron expressed deep concern over the "escalation" unfolding between Iran and Israel. Pointing to the mounting civilian casualties due to the increasingly reckless Israeli airstrikes, he urged Tel Aviv to end strikes on Iran that have nothing to do with nukes or missiles.

French President Emmanuel Macron has a message for Israel — and it's urgent. At a National Security Council meeting on Wednesday (Jun 18), Macron expressed deep concern over the "escalation" unfolding between Iran and Israel. Pointing to the mounting civilian casualties due to the increasingly reckless Israeli airstrikes, he urged Tel Aviv to end strikes on Iran that have nothing to do with nukes or missiles. What did Macron say to Israel? Addressing the National Security Council meeting, the French president "noted his concern over the current escalation, with Israeli strikes increasingly hitting targets not linked to Iran's nuclear or ballistic programme, and a mounting number of civilian victims in Iran and Israel," said his office. He said it was "necessary to urgently end these military operations, which pose significant threats to regional security", added the statement. Macron has also directed his foreign ministry to help French nationals in Iran and Israel leave the region if they wish to, added the Elysee without sharing further details. France won't just sit this one out Macron's office revealed that France, along with its European partners, was planning to suggest a negotiated solution to end the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel. To this end, Macron has tasked Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot with drafting a new initiative — alongside Germany and the UK — aimed at brokering a negotiated peace, reports AFP. The initiative with close European partners "would propose a demanding negotiated settlement to put an end to the conflict" before it spirals further. However, specific details remain sparse. Backchannel talks are already underway, according to AFP. Barrot has reportedly been in regular touch with his British and German counterparts since Israel launched massive air strikes against Iran on Friday. France, Germany, and the UK were all part of the now-faltering 2015 Iran nuclear deal. The groundbreaking deal started falling apart after the US walked away from it during President Donald Trump's first term.

Macron expressed deep concern over the "escalation" unfolding between Iran and Israel. Pointing to the mounting civilian casualties due to the increasingly reckless Israeli airstrikes, he urged Tel Aviv to end strikes on Iran that have nothing to do with nukes or missiles.

Macron urges Israel to cease strikes not linked to Iran's nuclear, ballistic programme, points to 'mounting' civilian deaths

French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday (Jun 17) warned that any military actions used in an attempt to force a regime change in Iran would result in “chaos”. This comes after US President Donald Trump made threats against Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.&nbsp;Macron made the remarks while talking to reporters at the Group of Seven summit in Canada shortly after Trump said he knows the exact location of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, but will not target him, at least for now.&nbsp;The US president has also demanded Tehran’s “unconditional” surrender, as Israel and Iran exchange military actions for a fifth day.&nbsp;Macron said that Trump had a critical role in restarting diplomacy with Tehran, adding that he believed the US president favours a ceasefire between Iran and Israel.&nbsp;“I believe we need the United States of America to bring everyone back around the table,” Macron told reporters at the G7 summit.&nbsp;Trump, who returned from the G7 summit a day earlier, held a National Security Council meeting to discuss the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel, the White House said. The meeting came amid reports that the US leader is considering whether to join Israel’s military operations against Tehran.&nbsp;AFP reported, citing a White House official, that the meeting in the White House Situation Room lasted around one hour and 20 minutes. The official did not add further details.&nbsp;Following the meeting, administration officials told NBC News that Trump is considering various options, including a US strike.&nbsp;“We are waiting for the decision of the president,” a senior Israeli official told CNN.&nbsp;According to US officials, Trump was keeping all options on the table. Although he had insisted that Washington had no involvement in Israel’s military campaign so far.&nbsp;Trump earlier declared that the US had achieved “complete and total control” of Iranian airspace, suggesting that the US may get directly involved in the ongoing conflict between the two foes, Israel and Iran.&nbsp;Some media reports also suggested that Trump had recently turned down a proposal by Israel to assassinate Ayatollah Khamenei.

This comes after US President Donald Trump made threats against Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday (Jun 17) warned that any military actions used in an attempt to force a regime change in Iran would result in “chaos”. This comes after US President Donald Trump made threats against Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Macron made the remarks while talking to reporters at the Group of Seven summit in Canada shortly after Trump said he knows the exact location of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, but will not target him, at least for now. The US president has also demanded Tehran’s “unconditional” surrender, as Israel and Iran exchange military actions for a fifth day. Macron said that Trump had a critical role in restarting diplomacy with Tehran, adding that he believed the US president favours a ceasefire between Iran and Israel. “I believe we need the United States of America to bring everyone back around the table,” Macron told reporters at the G7 summit. Trump, who returned from the G7 summit a day earlier, held a National Security Council meeting to discuss the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel, the White House said. The meeting came amid reports that the US leader is considering whether to join Israel’s military operations against Tehran. AFP reported, citing a White House official, that the meeting in the White House Situation Room lasted around one hour and 20 minutes. The official did not add further details. Following the meeting, administration officials told NBC News that Trump is considering various options, including a US strike. “We are waiting for the decision of the president,” a senior Israeli official told CNN. According to US officials, Trump was keeping all options on the table. Although he had insisted that Washington had no involvement in Israel’s military campaign so far. Trump earlier declared that the US had achieved “complete and total control” of Iranian airspace, suggesting that the US may get directly involved in the ongoing conflict between the two foes, Israel and Iran. Some media reports also suggested that Trump had recently turned down a proposal by Israel to assassinate Ayatollah Khamenei.

This comes after US President Donald Trump made threats against Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

‘It would be chaos’: Macron warns against forcing regime change in Iran amid Trump’s threats

Around 100 knives found in 958 random bag checks in school: How French government is facing teen violence in schoolsLately, France has been witnessing a surge in a series of attacks on teachers and pupils by school children.In April this year, the education ministry reported that 958 random bag checks in schools led to the seizure of 94 knives.The Educational Ministry of France introduced bag checks at schools this year.<h2>186 knives seized in two months</h2>Moreover, in a two-month period this spring, 186 knives were seized during school bag checks and 32 people were detained during that period.On Tuesday, a 15-year-old student stabbed a French middle school employee to death during a bag check at their school east of Paris, the national gendarme service said.The student was then arrested for stabbing the 31-year-old teaching assistant.French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the attack, calling the educational assistant, 'a victim of senseless violence'.“While she was looking after our children in Nogent, an educational assistant lost her life, a victim of senseless violence,” Macron said in a post on X. “The nation is in mourning and the government mobilized to bring crime down.”Far-right leader Marine Le Pen also condemned the attack, stressing, "Not a week goes by without a tragedy striking a school."Pen further denounced the "trivialization of ultra-violence, fueled by the apathy of public authorities."In another case in April, a high school student stabbed four other students at his school in Western France, killing one and injuring three others.<h2>Metal detectors to prevent attacks</h2>In April, Prime Minister Francois Bayrou suggested metal detectors to prevent such attacks in future to keep schools safe.Bayrou called for a response to the "endemic violence" among some youths and demanded proposals to prevent further violence."These weapons must be banned", raising the possibility of metal detectors as “one option.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-victim-of-senseless-violence-teenager-stabs-teaching-assistant-to-death-during-a-bag-check-at-french-school-1749554275878">Also read: 'Victim of senseless violence': Teenager stabs teaching assistant to death during a bag check at French school</a>

On Tuesday, a 15-year-old student stabbed a French middle school employee to death during a bag check at their school east of Paris, the national gendarme service said.

Around 100 knives found in 958 random bag checks in school: How French government is facing teen violence in schools Lately, France has been witnessing a surge in a series of attacks on teachers and pupils by school children. In April this year, the education ministry reported that 958 random bag checks in schools led to the seizure of 94 knives. The Educational Ministry of France introduced bag checks at schools this year. 186 knives seized in two months Moreover, in a two-month period this spring, 186 knives were seized during school bag checks and 32 people were detained during that period. On Tuesday, a 15-year-old student stabbed a French middle school employee to death during a bag check at their school east of Paris, the national gendarme service said. The student was then arrested for stabbing the 31-year-old teaching assistant. French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the attack, calling the educational assistant, 'a victim of senseless violence'. “While she was looking after our children in Nogent, an educational assistant lost her life, a victim of senseless violence,” Macron said in a post on X. “The nation is in mourning and the government mobilized to bring crime down.” Far-right leader Marine Le Pen also condemned the attack, stressing, "Not a week goes by without a tragedy striking a school." Pen further denounced the "trivialization of ultra-violence, fueled by the apathy of public authorities." In another case in April, a high school student stabbed four other students at his school in Western France, killing one and injuring three others. Metal detectors to prevent attacks In April, Prime Minister Francois Bayrou suggested metal detectors to prevent such attacks in future to keep schools safe. Bayrou called for a response to the "endemic violence" among some youths and demanded proposals to prevent further violence. "These weapons must be banned", raising the possibility of metal detectors as “one option.” Also read: 'Victim of senseless violence': Teenager stabs teaching assistant to death during a bag check at French school

On Tuesday, a 15-year-old student stabbed a French middle school employee to death during a bag check at their school east of Paris, the national gendarme service said.

Around 100 knives found in 958 random bag checks in school: How French government is facing teen violence in schools

French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday (Jun 9) called on Israel to quickly release the activists, including Greta Thunberg, aboard an aid boat that was headed for Gaza. This comes as the boat reached Israel’s Ashdod port on Monday after being intercepted by Israeli forces.&nbsp;Tens of thousands of people staged rallies after the Madleen, the boat carrying 12 activists, was stopped by Israel, preventing them from reaching the blockaded territory.&nbsp;The Madleen set sail from Italy on June 1 to raise awareness about the food shortage in the Gaza Strip amid the war with Israel. The place has been called the “hungriest place on Earth” by the United Nations, which warned that Gazans are at risk of famine.&nbsp;AFP reported that the Madleen reached the port north of Gaza at around 8:45 pm (1745 GMT), escorted by the Israeli navy. According to organisers, the boat was intercepted in international waters overnight.&nbsp;Freedom Flotilla Coalition said that at around 4:02 am (0102 GMT) on Monday (Jun 9), was vessel was “forcibly intercepted” by Israeli troops as it approached Gaza.&nbsp;“If you see this video, we are being intercepted and kidnapped in international waters by the Israeli occupational forces, or forces that support Israel,” Thunberg said in pre-recorded footage shared by the coalition.&nbsp;“I urge all my friends, family, and comrades to put pressure on the Swedish government to release me and the others as soon as possible,” she added in the clip.&nbsp;Israel's foreign ministry confirmed in a social post that “all the passengers of the ‘selfie yacht’ are safe and unharmed. It added that it expected the activists to return to their home countries.&nbsp;The interception of the boat was condemned by Turkey, which called it a “heinous attack”. While Iran denounced the move as “a form of piracy” in international waters.

The Madleen set sail from Italy on June 1 to raise awareness about the food shortage in the Gaza Strip amid the war with Israel. 

French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday (Jun 9) called on Israel to quickly release the activists, including Greta Thunberg, aboard an aid boat that was headed for Gaza. This comes as the boat reached Israel’s Ashdod port on Monday after being intercepted by Israeli forces. Tens of thousands of people staged rallies after the Madleen, the boat carrying 12 activists, was stopped by Israel, preventing them from reaching the blockaded territory. The Madleen set sail from Italy on June 1 to raise awareness about the food shortage in the Gaza Strip amid the war with Israel. The place has been called the “hungriest place on Earth” by the United Nations, which warned that Gazans are at risk of famine. AFP reported that the Madleen reached the port north of Gaza at around 8:45 pm (1745 GMT), escorted by the Israeli navy. According to organisers, the boat was intercepted in international waters overnight. Freedom Flotilla Coalition said that at around 4:02 am (0102 GMT) on Monday (Jun 9), was vessel was “forcibly intercepted” by Israeli troops as it approached Gaza. “If you see this video, we are being intercepted and kidnapped in international waters by the Israeli occupational forces, or forces that support Israel,” Thunberg said in pre-recorded footage shared by the coalition. “I urge all my friends, family, and comrades to put pressure on the Swedish government to release me and the others as soon as possible,” she added in the clip. Israel's foreign ministry confirmed in a social post that “all the passengers of the ‘selfie yacht’ are safe and unharmed. It added that it expected the activists to return to their home countries. The interception of the boat was condemned by Turkey, which called it a “heinous attack”. While Iran denounced the move as “a form of piracy” in international waters.

The Madleen set sail from Italy on June 1 to raise awareness about the food shortage in the Gaza Strip amid the war with Israel.&nbsp;

Aid boat carrying Greta Thunberg docks in Israel; Macron calls for release of Gaza activists

French President Emmanuel Macron’s wax figure, worth €40,000 ($45,700), was stolen from one of the most popular museums in Paris on Monday (Jun 2). The statue was found missing in the morning, and later it was found that two women and a man carried out the theft by disguising themselves as tourists, then later museum workers, said a police source.&nbsp;The individuals responsible for the crime are Greenpeace activists, who placed Macron’s wax figure in front of the Russian embassy as part of a pro-Ukrainian protest, according to AFP.&nbsp;The activists escaped through an emergency exit with Macron’s figure after covering it with a blanket. They then placed the figure in front of the Russian embassy in a protest to urge France to stop Russian gas and fertiliser imports.&nbsp;“For us, France is playing a double game,” said Jean-Francois Julliard, head of Greenpeace France.&nbsp;“Emmanuel Macron embodies this double discourse: he supports Ukraine but encourages French companies to continue trading with Russia.”&nbsp;Greenpeace targeted Macron because he had a particular responsibility, said Julliard. He added that the French president “should be the first” among European leaders to stop trade with Russia.&nbsp;Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, France has been one of the most vocal supporters of Kyiv.&nbsp;Macron has also taken a lead in defending Ukraine by forging a coordinated European response after US President Donald Trump rattled the world by directly holding talks with Russia.

The statue was placed in front of the Russian embassy in a protest to urge France to stop Russian gas and fertiliser imports.

French President Emmanuel Macron’s wax figure, worth €40,000 ($45,700), was stolen from one of the most popular museums in Paris on Monday (Jun 2). The statue was found missing in the morning, and later it was found that two women and a man carried out the theft by disguising themselves as tourists, then later museum workers, said a police source. The individuals responsible for the crime are Greenpeace activists, who placed Macron’s wax figure in front of the Russian embassy as part of a pro-Ukrainian protest, according to AFP. The activists escaped through an emergency exit with Macron’s figure after covering it with a blanket. They then placed the figure in front of the Russian embassy in a protest to urge France to stop Russian gas and fertiliser imports. “For us, France is playing a double game,” said Jean-Francois Julliard, head of Greenpeace France. “Emmanuel Macron embodies this double discourse: he supports Ukraine but encourages French companies to continue trading with Russia.” Greenpeace targeted Macron because he had a particular responsibility, said Julliard. He added that the French president “should be the first” among European leaders to stop trade with Russia. Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, France has been one of the most vocal supporters of Kyiv. Macron has also taken a lead in defending Ukraine by forging a coordinated European response after US President Donald Trump rattled the world by directly holding talks with Russia.

The statue was placed in front of the Russian embassy in a protest to urge France to stop Russian gas and fertiliser imports.

Why was French President Macron’s wax figure stolen in Paris?

US President Donald Trump has some marital advice for French President Emmanuel Macron, who recently got embroiled in controversy after a video of his wife supposedly slapping him went viral.The video captures French President Emmanuel Macron being "slapped", or rather pushed, in the face by his wife, Brigitte Macron, upon their arrival in Hanoi, Vietnam. The video has garnered significant media attention. It shows Brigitte extending her arms towards Macron's face as they disembarked from their aircraft. Initially, the Élysée Palace dismissed the incident as a light-hearted moment between the couple. President Macron later addressed the media frenzy, describing the interaction as harmless play fighting between spouses.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/french-president-s-hanoi-visit-overshadowed-by-viral-moment-1748319012870">French president's Hanoi visit overshadowed by viral moment</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Macron bitchslapped by 72-year-old wife Brigitte...his people claim it was a playful not angry slap <a href="https://t.co/3d15JVZFst">pic.twitter.com/3d15JVZFst</a>&mdash; Rita Panahi (@RitaPanahi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RitaPanahi/status/1926952721652793459?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What advice did Trump give Macron?</h2>In response to the viral video, US President Donald Trump offered a humorous take. During the send-off press conference for Elon Musk, a Fox News correspondent asked Trump if he had any "world leader-to-world leader marital advice" for Macron. Trump, who has plenty of marital experience under his belt — he has been married three times — quipped: "Make sure the door remains closed"."That was not good," Trump said to laughter in the Oval Office.Trump then revealed that he had talked to Macron after the plane incident."I spoke to him," he said, adding, "He's fine. They're fine"."They're two really good people. I know him very well, and I don't know what that was all about," added Trump as he chose his words carefully."But I know him very well, and they're fine," he added.<h2>Elon Musk's black eye</h2>Musk, who was supporting a black eye himself, interjected into the conversation, saying, "I know a little shiner here". He later revealed that the injury happened when he was "horsing around with Little X" his son.

During the send-off press conference for Elon Musk, Trump was asked if he had any "world leader-to-world leader marital advice" for Macron. Trump, who has plenty of marital experience under his belt — he has been married three times — quipped: "Make sure the door remains closed".

US President Donald Trump has some marital advice for French President Emmanuel Macron, who recently got embroiled in controversy after a video of his wife supposedly slapping him went viral. The video captures French President Emmanuel Macron being "slapped", or rather pushed, in the face by his wife, Brigitte Macron, upon their arrival in Hanoi, Vietnam. The video has garnered significant media attention. It shows Brigitte extending her arms towards Macron's face as they disembarked from their aircraft. Initially, the Élysée Palace dismissed the incident as a light-hearted moment between the couple. President Macron later addressed the media frenzy, describing the interaction as harmless play fighting between spouses. Also read | French president's Hanoi visit overshadowed by viral moment

During the send-off press conference for Elon Musk, Trump was asked if he had any "world leader-to-world leader marital advice" for Macron. Trump, who has plenty of marital experience under his belt — he has been married three times — quipped: "Make sure the door remains closed".

Donald Trump gives French President Emmanuel Macron marital advice after viral slap video: 'Make sure...'

French President Emmanuel Macron slammed Israel over the war with Hamas in Gaza, amid an escalating war of words between Jerusalem and Paris. Speaking at a summit in Singapore on Friday (May 30), President Emmanuel Macron said European countries should 'harden' their position on Israel, and that recognizing a Palestinian state, with some conditions, was 'a moral duty.'&nbsp;“If we abandon Gaza, if we consider there is a free pass for Israel, even if we do condemn the terrorist attacks, we will kill our credibility…And this is why we do reject double standard," Macron said.&nbsp;This comes after Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz declared his government’s intention to build a “Jewish Israeli state” in the occupied West Bank.&nbsp;“This is a decisive response to the terrorist organisations that are trying to harm and weaken our hold on this land – and it is also a clear message to (French President Emmanuel) Macron and his associates: they will recognise a Palestinian state on paper – but we will build the Jewish Israeli state here on the ground,” Katz said in a statement, as per AFP.&nbsp;The French leader also said Europe and the United States were unable to solve crises around the world, including in Gaza and Ukraine.&nbsp;"I think the credibility of both the US and the Europeans to pretend to fix the crises in these regions is very low," Macron told the Shangri-la Dialogue at the end of his Southeast Asian tour.&nbsp;<h2>Israel's response to Macron</h2>In response, Israel's foreign ministry, said in a statement, "There is no humanitarian blockade. That is a blatant lie," defending its efforts to allow aid to enter the enclave. "But instead of applying pressure on the jihadist terrorists, Macron wants to reward them with a Palestinian state. No doubt its national day will be October 7," it added. Last week, Israel partially lifted a more than two-month blockade on supplies entering Gaza.&nbsp;“It is against Israel — under attack on multiple fronts in an attempt to destroy it — that Macron seeks to impose sanctions…“Hamas, for its part, has already praised Macron’s statements. Hamas knows why,” added the Foreign Ministry. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron slammed Israel over the war with Hamas in Gaza amid an escalating war of words between Jerusalem and Paris. 

French President Emmanuel Macron slammed Israel over the war with Hamas in Gaza, amid an escalating war of words between Jerusalem and Paris. Speaking at a summit in Singapore on Friday (May 30), President Emmanuel Macron said European countries should 'harden' their position on Israel, and that recognizing a Palestinian state, with some conditions, was 'a moral duty.' “If we abandon Gaza, if we consider there is a free pass for Israel, even if we do condemn the terrorist attacks, we will kill our credibility…And this is why we do reject double standard," Macron said. This comes after Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz declared his government’s intention to build a “Jewish Israeli state” in the occupied West Bank. “This is a decisive response to the terrorist organisations that are trying to harm and weaken our hold on this land – and it is also a clear message to (French President Emmanuel) Macron and his associates: they will recognise a Palestinian state on paper – but we will build the Jewish Israeli state here on the ground,” Katz said in a statement, as per AFP. The French leader also said Europe and the United States were unable to solve crises around the world, including in Gaza and Ukraine. "I think the credibility of both the US and the Europeans to pretend to fix the crises in these regions is very low," Macron told the Shangri-la Dialogue at the end of his Southeast Asian tour. Israel's response to Macron In response, Israel's foreign ministry, said in a statement, "There is no humanitarian blockade. That is a blatant lie," defending its efforts to allow aid to enter the enclave. "But instead of applying pressure on the jihadist terrorists, Macron wants to reward them with a Palestinian state. No doubt its national day will be October 7," it added. Last week, Israel partially lifted a more than two-month blockade on supplies entering Gaza. “It is against Israel — under attack on multiple fronts in an attempt to destroy it — that Macron seeks to impose sanctions…“Hamas, for its part, has already praised Macron’s statements. Hamas knows why,” added the Foreign Ministry.

French President Emmanuel Macron slammed Israel over the war with Hamas in Gaza, amid an escalating war of words between Jerusalem and Paris.&nbsp;

'If we abandon Gaza...': Macron's remark draws Israeli ire, Israel says 'Hamas praises him you know why'

Hours after a video went viral showing French President Emmanuel Macron's wife playfully smacking him on the plane, Macron finally broke the silence on the controversy people's spreading on social media.The French president rejected the video shared on social media, which purportedly shows his wife pulling his face away as they step off an aircraft in Vietnam.Macron dismissed the videos, however, agreed that the video was authentic and not fake."The videos are all real, and yes, sometimes people tamper with them, but people are attributing all kinds of nonsense to them," he said while speaking to media in Hanoi on Monday.While defending the video, Macron said, "There’s a video showing me joking and teasing my wife and somehow that becomes a sort of geo-planetary catastrophe, with people even coming up with theories to explain it.”In a video making rounds on the internet, French President Emmanuel Macron's wife Brigitte Macron has been seen, playfully smacking her husband as he stepped off the plane in Vietnam.In the video, as the aircraft opens, the first visible movement shown in the video is of Brigitte Macron's arms, reaching out to his husband.Later, the couple walked down the stairs together with smiles on their faces. However, Macron's wife declined the president's offered arm to hold.After the video went viral, netizens started debating, with some asking, "Are they okay?" While others questioned, "Is this a public spat or just pre-trip exhaustion?”The Elysee Palace initially, denied the video's existence, but eventually, it came forward admitting it, saying that it was just "playful teasing"."It was a moment when the president and his wife were relaxing one last time before the start of the trip by having a laugh. It was a moment of closeness," an Elysee official said, according to a Reuters report. &nbsp;

The French president rejected the video shared on social media, which purportedly shows his wife pulling his face away as they step off an aircraft in Vietnam.

Hours after a video went viral showing French President Emmanuel Macron's wife playfully smacking him on the plane, Macron finally broke the silence on the controversy people's spreading on social media. The French president rejected the video shared on social media, which purportedly shows his wife pulling his face away as they step off an aircraft in Vietnam. Macron dismissed the videos, however, agreed that the video was authentic and not fake. "The videos are all real, and yes, sometimes people tamper with them, but people are attributing all kinds of nonsense to them," he said while speaking to media in Hanoi on Monday. While defending the video, Macron said, "There’s a video showing me joking and teasing my wife and somehow that becomes a sort of geo-planetary catastrophe, with people even coming up with theories to explain it.” In a video making rounds on the internet, French President Emmanuel Macron's wife Brigitte Macron has been seen, playfully smacking her husband as he stepped off the plane in Vietnam. In the video, as the aircraft opens, the first visible movement shown in the video is of Brigitte Macron's arms, reaching out to his husband. Later, the couple walked down the stairs together with smiles on their faces. However, Macron's wife declined the president's offered arm to hold. After the video went viral, netizens started debating, with some asking, "Are they okay?" While others questioned, "Is this a public spat or just pre-trip exhaustion?” The Elysee Palace initially, denied the video's existence, but eventually, it came forward admitting it, saying that it was just "playful teasing". "It was a moment when the president and his wife were relaxing one last time before the start of the trip by having a laugh. It was a moment of closeness," an Elysee official said, according to a Reuters report.

The French president rejected the video shared on social media, which purportedly shows his wife pulling his face away as they step off an aircraft in Vietnam.

'Geo-planetary catastrophe': French President Macron breaks silence over his video of his wife 'smacking' him - Here's what he said

In a video making rounds on internet, French President Emmanuel Macron's wife Brigitte Macron has been seen, playfully smacking her husband as he stepped off the plane in Vietnam.Macron landed in Hanoi on Sunday evening, beginning his Southeast Asia tour.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-macron-and-zelensky-lead-wave-of-new-mobile-phone-diplomacy-8893739">Also read: &nbsp;Trump, Macron and Zelensky lead wave of new 'mobile phone diplomacy'</a>&nbsp;However, not his visit or political agendas made headlines as much as the president and his wife's playful act did.It was the brief, awkward exchange caught on camera by news agency Associated Press.<h2>Watch video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Macron’s ‘playful smack’ goes viral; Elysee official says &quot;it was a moment of closeness&quot; . . . .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EmmanuelMacron?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EmmanuelMacron</a> <a href="https://t.co/cHGtBMEFWf">pic.twitter.com/cHGtBMEFWf</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1926951929596252271?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In the video, as the aircraft opens, the first visible movement shown in the video is of Brigitte Macron's arms, reaching out to his husband.Later, the couple walked down the stairs together with smiles on their faces. However, Macron's wife declined the president's offered arm to hold.The Elysee Palace initially, denied the video's existence, but eventually, it came forward admitting it, saying that it was just "playful teasing"."It was a moment when the president and his wife were relaxing one last time before the start of the trip by having a laugh. It was a moment of closeness," an Elysee official said, according to a Reuters report.A source close to President Macron told BFMTV, a French news broadcaster, that the couple was “bickering” and trying to unwind before the start of a long tour.“It was a moment of complicity,” the source said. Another source described it as “a harmless squabble.”After the video went viral, netizens started debating, with some asking, "Are they okay?" While others questioned, "Is this a public spat or just pre-trip exhaustion?”Some also asked, "Was it a real slap, or just an awkward push?"Later, as Macron reached Hanoi, his office asked the internet to top-feed the “conspiracy theories,” especially the ones involving, of course, Brigitte’s act.The couple's visit to Southeast Asia will focus on strengthening ties in defence, innovation, and energy.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/seven-delegations-32-nations-india-s-diplomatic-outreach-on-operation-sindoor-1747556526647">WATCH | Seven Delegations, 32 Nations: India's Diplomatic Outreach On ‘Operation Sindoor’</a>

The Elysee Palace initially, denied the video's existence, but eventually, it came forward admitting it, saying that it was just "playful teasing".

In a video making rounds on internet, French President Emmanuel Macron's wife Brigitte Macron has been seen, playfully smacking her husband as he stepped off the plane in Vietnam. Macron landed in Hanoi on Sunday evening, beginning his Southeast Asia tour. Also read: Trump, Macron and Zelensky lead wave of new 'mobile phone diplomacy' However, not his visit or political agendas made headlines as much as the president and his wife's playful act did. It was the brief, awkward exchange caught on camera by news agency Associated Press. Watch video here

The Elysee Palace initially, denied the video's existence, but eventually, it came forward admitting it, saying that it was just "playful teasing".

Did French President Macron's wife 'playfully smack' his face on plane? Watch video to know

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (May 14) accused French President Emmanuel Macron of standing with a "murderous Islamist terrorist organization" after he blamed Israel for "blood libels".
"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/israel">Israel</a>&nbsp;will not stop or surrender," Netanyahu stressed in a post on X, saying that Macron is demanding that Israel surrender and reward terrorism, instead of supporting the Western democratic camp.&nbsp;
"Macron once again chose to stand alongside a murderous Islamist terrorist organization and echo its false propaganda, accusing Israel of blood libels," Netanyahu posted on X.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/screw-you-macron-to-strip-club-scandal-yair-netanyahu-and-his-major-controversies-8964413">'Screw you' Macron to strip club scandal: Yair Netanyahu and his major controversies</a>
Israel is waging a multi-pronged struggle for its existence after the Hamas October 7 attack, including the murder and kidnapping of dozens of French citizens, the Israeli PM said.
Netanyahu said, "Instead of supporting the Western democratic camp that is fighting Islamist terrorist organizations and calling for the release of the hostages, Macron is once again demanding that Israel surrender and reward terrorism."
Israeli PM Netanyahu is "determined to complete all of Israel's war goals," the statement read, including the release of all Israeli hostages, the military and governmental defeat of Hamas, and a promise that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel.
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-israel-targets-hamas-leader-mohammed-sinwar-in-hospital-strike-in-gaza-sources-9066596">Israel-Hamas War | Israel Targets Hamas Leader Mohammed Sinwar In Hospital Strike In Gaza: Sources</a>
<h2>What did Macron say?&nbsp;</h2>
Macron in a televised interview on Tuesday, accused Israel's government of "unacceptable" and "shameful" behaviour as it blocked aid to Gaza.&nbsp;
"What the government of Benjamin Netanyahu is doing is unacceptable...There is no water, no medicine, the wounded cannot get out, the doctors cannot get in. What he is doing is shameful," Macron told TF1 television.&nbsp;
"We need the United States. President (Donald) Trump has the levers. I have had tough words with Prime Minister Netanyahu. I got angry, but they (Israel) don't depend on us, they depend on American weapons," he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-makes-good-on-threat-as-israel-strikes-yemens-sanaa-airport-after-houthi-strike-on-tel-aviv-9041218">'There will be bangs': Netanyahu makes good on threat as Israel strikes Yemen's Sanaa airport after Houthi strike on Tel Aviv</a>
&nbsp;

Macron in a televised interview on Tuesday, accused Israel's government of "unacceptable" and "shameful" behaviour as it blocked aid to Gaza. world

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (May 14) accused French President Emmanuel Macron of standing with a "murderous Islamist terrorist organization" after he blamed Israel for "blood libels". "Israel will not stop or surrender," Netanyahu stressed in a post on X, saying that Macron is demanding that Israel surrender and reward terrorism, instead of supporting the Western democratic camp. "Macron once again chose to stand alongside a murderous Islamist terrorist organization and echo its false propaganda, accusing Israel of blood libels," Netanyahu posted on X. Also read: 'Screw you' Macron to strip club scandal: Yair Netanyahu and his major controversies Israel is waging a multi-pronged struggle for its existence after the Hamas October 7 attack, including the murder and kidnapping of dozens of French citizens, the Israeli PM said. Netanyahu said, "Instead of supporting the Western democratic camp that is fighting Islamist terrorist organizations and calling for the release of the hostages, Macron is once again demanding that Israel surrender and reward terrorism." Israeli PM Netanyahu is "determined to complete all of Israel's war goals," the statement read, including the release of all Israeli hostages, the military and governmental defeat of Hamas, and a promise that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel. WATCH | Israel-Hamas War | Israel Targets Hamas Leader Mohammed Sinwar In Hospital Strike In Gaza: Sources What did Macron say? Macron in a televised interview on Tuesday, accused Israel's government of "unacceptable" and "shameful" behaviour as it blocked aid to Gaza. "What the government of Benjamin Netanyahu is doing is unacceptable...There is no water, no medicine, the wounded cannot get out, the doctors cannot get in. What he is doing is shameful," Macron told TF1 television. "We need the United States. President (Donald) Trump has the levers. I have had tough words with Prime Minister Netanyahu. I got angry, but they (Israel) don't depend on us, they depend on American weapons," he added. Also read: 'There will be bangs': Netanyahu makes good on threat as Israel strikes Yemen's Sanaa airport after Houthi strike on Tel Aviv

Macron supporting 'murderous terror organisation', Netanyahu accuses after French president blames Israel for 'blood libels'

French President Emmanuel Macron was seen picking up a white-coloured item from the table in a video shot inside a train from Poland to Kyiv. He was accompanied by Friedrich Merz, the German chancellor, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Rumours started circulating that Macron hid a packet of cocaine.&nbsp;
Some Kremlin officials further fuelled them, openly alleging that the leaders were intoxicated. The &Eacute;lys&eacute;e Palace has slammed the claims as "disinformation", saying that it was only a piece of tissue paper.
Marcon, Merz, and Starmer were visiting Ukraine to show their support for Ukraine in its ongoing war with Russia. The cocaine claims first popped up on pro-Russian social media channels. Later, a Kremlin spokesperson and another official also talked about it.
&ldquo;This fake news is being spread by France&rsquo;s enemies, both abroad and at home. We must remain vigilant against manipulation,&rdquo; the &Eacute;lys&eacute;e posted on X.
The video shows the three leaders around a table as the cameras start rolling. Macron then picks up a white object from the table and later puts it in his pocket.&nbsp;
&ldquo;This is a tissue. For blowing your nose,&rdquo; the &Eacute;lys&eacute;e posted alongside an image from the meeting. &ldquo;This is European unity. To build peace."
&ldquo;When European unity becomes inconvenient, disinformation goes so far as to make a simple tissue look like drugs.&rdquo;
<h2>Video of Macron allegedly picking up "cocaine"</h2>
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🚨 BREAKING! Macron, Starmer, and Merz caught red handed with a bag of coke on the table as Macron tries to hide it! Thoughts? <a href="https://t.co/lZ9CfTpV0D">pic.twitter.com/lZ9CfTpV0D</a>
&mdash; Liberal Tear Creator&trade; (@LibTearCreator1) <a href="https://twitter.com/LibTearCreator1/status/1921559791542956437?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2025</a></blockquote>
The cocaine story received a further boost from user claims that Merz was holding a white cocaine spoon. In the video, he can be seen holding the alleged object fully in his hand.&nbsp;
<h2>Russian spokesperson claims the European leaders did cocaine</h2>
Among those who promoted the cocaine claim was the Kremlin&rsquo;s foreign ministry spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, who posted about it on her Telegram channel.
&ldquo;After pushing Zelensky into yet another hellish scheme to derail a settlement and prolong the bloodshed in Europe, it&rsquo;s like a joke: a Frenchman, an Englishman, and a German got on a train &ndash; and did a line,&rdquo; Zakharova wrote on Sunday.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-will-be-waiting-for-putin-ukraines-zelensky-ready-for-talks-but-only-if-russia-agrees-to-a-ceasefire-9058550" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Ukraine's Zelensky ready for talks, but only if Russia agrees to a ceasefire</a>
&ldquo;Apparently, they were so out of it they forgot to hide the paraphernalia &ndash; a small bag and a spoon &ndash; before the journalists arrived. Europe&rsquo;s fate is in the hands of placeholders who are dependent, in every sense of the word.&rdquo;
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/1205_WION_TALK_9PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1205_WION_TALK_9PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=183&amp;tags=Russia, Ukraine, World News, WION" title="Russia opens door for Ukraine peace talks amidst EU pressure" id="PL_iframe_block-malvebuz-8lb45wl9-q3j6tys9"></iframe>
Kirill Dmitriev, another Russian official, wrote under the video on X, &ldquo;Is this footage AI or real? If it&rsquo;s real &ndash; are we looking at sugar or something entirely different? If it&rsquo;s something else, it explains a lot of recent ideas and proposals."
According to the western media, Russia is trying to sour relations between the US, Europe and Ukraine over pressure for a ceasefire.
Zakharova and other Russian officials had earlier claimed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was an &ldquo;unstable cocaine addict&rdquo;. They have often claimed that European leaders use cocaine.&nbsp;

Did Macron hide a packet of cocaine? A video on social media shows the French president picking up something from the table that people think is cocaine. World Trending

French President Emmanuel Macron was seen picking up a white-coloured item from the table in a video shot inside a train from Poland to Kyiv. He was accompanied by Friedrich Merz, the German chancellor, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Rumours started circulating that Macron hid a packet of cocaine. Some Kremlin officials further fuelled them, openly alleging that the leaders were intoxicated. The Élysée Palace has slammed the claims as "disinformation", saying that it was only a piece of tissue paper. Marcon, Merz, and Starmer were visiting Ukraine to show their support for Ukraine in its ongoing war with Russia. The cocaine claims first popped up on pro-Russian social media channels. Later, a Kremlin spokesperson and another official also talked about it. “This fake news is being spread by France’s enemies, both abroad and at home. We must remain vigilant against manipulation,” the Élysée posted on X. The video shows the three leaders around a table as the cameras start rolling. Macron then picks up a white object from the table and later puts it in his pocket. “This is a tissue. For blowing your nose,” the Élysée posted alongside an image from the meeting. “This is European unity. To build peace." “When European unity becomes inconvenient, disinformation goes so far as to make a simple tissue look like drugs.” Video of Macron allegedly picking up "cocaine" 🚨 BREAKING! Macron, Starmer, and Merz caught red handed with a bag of coke on the table as Macron tries to hide it! Thoughts? pic.twitter.com/lZ9CfTpV0D — Liberal Tear Creator™ (@LibTearCreator1) May 11, 2025 The cocaine story received a further boost from user claims that Merz was holding a white cocaine spoon. In the video, he can be seen holding the alleged object fully in his hand. Russian spokesperson claims the European leaders did cocaine Among those who promoted the cocaine claim was the Kremlin’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, who posted about it on her Telegram channel. “After pushing Zelensky into yet another hellish scheme to derail a settlement and prolong the bloodshed in Europe, it’s like a joke: a Frenchman, an Englishman, and a German got on a train – and did a line,” Zakharova wrote on Sunday. Also Read: Ukraine's Zelensky ready for talks, but only if Russia agrees to a ceasefire “Apparently, they were so out of it they forgot to hide the paraphernalia – a small bag and a spoon – before the journalists arrived. Europe’s fate is in the hands of placeholders who are dependent, in every sense of the word.” Kirill Dmitriev, another Russian official, wrote under the video on X, “Is this footage AI or real? If it’s real – are we looking at sugar or something entirely different? If it’s something else, it explains a lot of recent ideas and proposals." According to the western media, Russia is trying to sour relations between the US, Europe and Ukraine over pressure for a ceasefire. Zakharova and other Russian officials had earlier claimed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was an “unstable cocaine addict”. They have often claimed that European leaders use cocaine.

'Did a line' and 'forgot to hide': ‘Cocaine’ conspiracy theory accuses Macron, Starmer and Merz of drug use on train to Kyiv

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World leaders, including US President Donald Trump and French counterpart Emmanuel Macron, attended the funeral event of Pope Francis in Vatican City on Saturday. Two photos of Trump and Macron have gone viral on the internet - one, where the US president seemingly gives a death stare to his French counterpart, and the second, where both are shaking hands.
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The handshake is during the Sign of Peace, a rite where individuals express peace, communion and charity with each other. Both leaders can be seen shaking hands and saying: "Peace be with you."&nbsp;
Seating arrangement at the Pope's funeral was the talk of the town ahead of the scheduled event, with reports stating that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky might be seated alongside Trump. However, Zelensky was seated with Indian President Droupadi Murmu. All these leaders were also given the front row.
Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky have been given front-row seats for Pope Francis&rsquo;s funeral.&nbsp;Emmanuel Macron is also sat in the front row.
Trump and Macron had the leaders of Estonia and Finland seated between them. Earlier in March, Trump and Macron met at the White House, and videos of their 'bromance went viral on the internet with some even calling their hugs, yank handshakes, hand grips and knee touches "awkward."
French President Macron has taken the seat of a mediator for the talks between Ukrainian and US officials for a deal to end the Russia-Ukraine war. Earlier this month, talks were held in Paris amid Trump's threats that he would walk away from the mediation if Kyiv did not agree to the US' proposal. &nbsp;
Meanwhile, Trump held a short meeting with Zelensky in St. Peter's Basilica before the Pope's funeral. They were also joined by Macron and UK PM Keir Starmer.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9y8zwhd-24ybrcsg-npv3jnox">
Video footage of Trump, Zelensky and Macron meeting in St Peter&rsquo;s Basilica in the Vatican 🇺🇸🇺🇦🇫🇷🇻🇦 <a href="https://t.co/F0iQ3rFfM6">pic.twitter.com/F0iQ3rFfM6</a>
&mdash; Niv Calderon (@nivcalderon) <a href="https://twitter.com/nivcalderon/status/1916108512599359721?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2025</a></blockquote>
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World | Two photos of Trump and Macron have gone viral - one, where the US president seemingly gives a death stare, and the second, where both are shaking hands.

World leaders, including US President Donald Trump and French counterpart Emmanuel Macron, attended the funeral event of Pope Francis in Vatican City on Saturday. Two photos of Trump and Macron have gone viral on the internet - one, where the US president seemingly gives a death stare to his French counterpart, and the second, where both are shaking hands. The handshake is during the Sign of Peace, a rite where individuals express peace, communion and charity with each other. Both leaders can be seen shaking hands and saying: "Peace be with you." Seating arrangement at the Pope's funeral was the talk of the town ahead of the scheduled event, with reports stating that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky might be seated alongside Trump. However, Zelensky was seated with Indian President Droupadi Murmu. All these leaders were also given the front row. Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky have been given front-row seats for Pope Francis’s funeral. Emmanuel Macron is also sat in the front row. Trump and Macron had the leaders of Estonia and Finland seated between them. Earlier in March, Trump and Macron met at the White House, and videos of their 'bromance went viral on the internet with some even calling their hugs, yank handshakes, hand grips and knee touches "awkward." French President Macron has taken the seat of a mediator for the talks between Ukrainian and US officials for a deal to end the Russia-Ukraine war. Earlier this month, talks were held in Paris amid Trump's threats that he would walk away from the mediation if Kyiv did not agree to the US' proposal. Meanwhile, Trump held a short meeting with Zelensky in St. Peter's Basilica before the Pope's funeral. They were also joined by Macron and UK PM Keir Starmer. Video footage of Trump, Zelensky and Macron meeting in St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican 🇺🇸🇺🇦🇫🇷🇻🇦 pic.twitter.com/F0iQ3rFfM6 — Niv Calderon (@nivcalderon) April 26, 2025

Handshake and death stare: Curious case of two pictures of Trump and Macron in Pope Francis' funeral | Watch

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu's elder son, Yair Netanyahu, is once again in the headlines, this time for lashing out at French President Emmanuel Macron for his statement that Paris could recognise a Palestinian state within months.&nbsp;
"Screw you!" Benjamin Netanyahu's son wrote in English on the social media platform X late on Saturday (April 12).&nbsp;
"Yes to independence of New Caledonia! Yes to independence for French Polynesia! Yes to the independence of Corsica! Yes to independence of the Basque Country! Yes to independence of French Guinea!" he added.&nbsp;
After this, the Israeli PM took to X and said that his son's comments to Macron were "unacceptable".
"I love my son Yair, a true Zionist who cares about the future of the country. Like every citizen, he is entitled to his personal opinion, although the style of his response to President Macron's tweet calling for the establishment of a Palestinian state is unacceptable to me," Netanyahu said in the X post.&nbsp;
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אני אוהב את בני יאיר, ציוני אמיתי שדואג לעתיד המדינה. כמו כל אזרח, גם הוא זכאי לדעתו האישית, הגם שסגנון תגובתו לציוצו של הנשיא מקרון שקרא להקמת מדינה פלסטינית, אינו מקובל עלי. הנשיא מקרון טועה קשות, כאשר הוא ממשיך לקדם את רעיון המדינה הפלסטינית בלב ארצנו, שכל שאיפתה היא השמדת&hellip;
&mdash; Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1911475839104921896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/screw-you-netanyahus-son-yair-slams-macron-on-palestinian-statehood-8956340">&lsquo;Screw you!&rsquo;: Netanyahu&rsquo;s son Yair slams Macron on Palestinian statehood</a>
But, it's not the first time Netanyahu has had to come to the defence of his son after Yair's not-so-proud acts. The elder son of the Israeli PM has always been in controversy.&nbsp;
<h2>Who is Yair Netanyahu?&nbsp;</h2>
Born in 1991, Yair is the eldest son and the first child of the Israeli PM with his second wife, Sara Netanyahu. Although he has no political position, Yair has often shared his controversial and extremist opinions online.&nbsp;
Graduated from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in international relations, Yair now works as a Podcaster and claims himself a political analyst.&nbsp;
<h2>The George Soros meme scandal - 2017&nbsp;</h2>
In 2017, Yair had posted a controversial meme on the social media platform Facebook. He claimed that there was a conspiracy being led by George Soros to topple his father's government in Israel.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-says-war-with-iran-inevitable-if-nuclear-talks-stall-donald-trump-8940638">'Blow up Iran's facilities': Netanyahu says war with Tehran 'inevitable' if nuclear talks stall</a>
The meme showed Soros as a puppet master controlling world events. Even though Soros is Jewish, he is often the target of far-right conspiracy theories. &nbsp;
Yair's post was heavily slammed by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), which called it &ldquo;dangerous&rdquo; and &ldquo;anti-Semitic", along with other political groups. After the criticism, Yair deleted the post.&nbsp;
<h2>The strip club video - 2017</h2>
An Israeli news channel aired a secret video clip in which Yair was seen drunk outside a strip club and bragging about his political powers while being accompanied by the government-funded bodyguards. The then 24-year-old was seen bragging about how his father helped a friend secure a giant gas deal.&nbsp;
He was further seen making derogatory comments about women outside the strip club. Yair received massive backlash from Israelis for using taxpayers' money to fund his late-night debauchery.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/criminal-investigation-launches-against-sara-netanyahu-for-witness-tampering-8684712">Criminal investigation against Sara Netanyahu for 'witness tampering'</a>
After the backlash, Yair publicly apologised for his "nonsense" comments, saying that he was drunk and not in his senses.&nbsp;
<h2>'Muslims Should Leave Israel' - 2020&nbsp;</h2>
Yair was in the middle of a debate on X about the Temple Mount and Muslim prayer rights when he wrote: &ldquo;all Muslims should leave the land of Israel.&rdquo;
The comments drew massive outrage for being Islamophobic. Some of the major supporters of Netanyahu distanced themselves after Yair's comment. They were concerned that it could lead to regional tension in Israel.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fraud-trial-of-israel-pms-wife-sara-netanyahu-postponed-court-150254">Fraud trial of Israel PM's wife Sara Netanyahu postponed: Court</a>
Again, the post was deleted, BUT couldn't fix the damage already done.&nbsp;
<h2>Other controversies&nbsp;</h2>
Apart from all this, Yair has been accused of being involved in multiple defamation cases as well.&nbsp;He has also clashed with the Israeli media and even called them "fake news" and "traitors". &nbsp;

TRENDING | World | Graduated from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in international relations, Yair now works as a Podcaster and claims himself a political analyst.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu's elder son, Yair Netanyahu, is once again in the headlines, this time for lashing out at French President Emmanuel Macron for his statement that Paris could recognise a Palestinian state within months. "Screw you!" Benjamin Netanyahu's son wrote in English on the social media platform X late on Saturday (April 12). "Yes to independence of New Caledonia! Yes to independence for French Polynesia! Yes to the independence of Corsica! Yes to independence of the Basque Country! Yes to independence of French Guinea!" he added. After this, the Israeli PM took to X and said that his son's comments to Macron were "unacceptable". "I love my son Yair, a true Zionist who cares about the future of the country. Like every citizen, he is entitled to his personal opinion, although the style of his response to President Macron's tweet calling for the establishment of a Palestinian state is unacceptable to me," Netanyahu said in the X post. אני אוהב את בני יאיר, ציוני אמיתי שדואג לעתיד המדינה. כמו כל אזרח, גם הוא זכאי לדעתו האישית, הגם שסגנון תגובתו לציוצו של הנשיא מקרון שקרא להקמת מדינה פלסטינית, אינו מקובל עלי. הנשיא מקרון טועה קשות, כאשר הוא ממשיך לקדם את רעיון המדינה הפלסטינית בלב ארצנו, שכל שאיפתה היא השמדת… — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) April 13, 2025 Also read: ‘Screw you!’: Netanyahu’s son Yair slams Macron on Palestinian statehood But, it's not the first time Netanyahu has had to come to the defence of his son after Yair's not-so-proud acts. The elder son of the Israeli PM has always been in controversy. Who is Yair Netanyahu? Born in 1991, Yair is the eldest son and the first child of the Israeli PM with his second wife, Sara Netanyahu. Although he has no political position, Yair has often shared his controversial and extremist opinions online. Graduated from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in international relations, Yair now works as a Podcaster and claims himself a political analyst. The George Soros meme scandal - 2017 In 2017, Yair had posted a controversial meme on the social media platform Facebook. He claimed that there was a conspiracy being led by George Soros to topple his father's government in Israel. Also read: 'Blow up Iran's facilities': Netanyahu says war with Tehran 'inevitable' if nuclear talks stall The meme showed Soros as a puppet master controlling world events. Even though Soros is Jewish, he is often the target of far-right conspiracy theories. Yair's post was heavily slammed by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), which called it “dangerous” and “anti-Semitic", along with other political groups. After the criticism, Yair deleted the post. The strip club video - 2017 An Israeli news channel aired a secret video clip in which Yair was seen drunk outside a strip club and bragging about his political powers while being accompanied by the government-funded bodyguards. The then 24-year-old was seen bragging about how his father helped a friend secure a giant gas deal. He was further seen making derogatory comments about women outside the strip club. Yair received massive backlash from Israelis for using taxpayers' money to fund his late-night debauchery. Also read: Criminal investigation against Sara Netanyahu for 'witness tampering' After the backlash, Yair publicly apologised for his "nonsense" comments, saying that he was drunk and not in his senses. 'Muslims Should Leave Israel' - 2020 Yair was in the middle of a debate on X about the Temple Mount and Muslim prayer rights when he wrote: “all Muslims should leave the land of Israel.” The comments drew massive outrage for being Islamophobic. Some of the major supporters of Netanyahu distanced themselves after Yair's comment. They were concerned that it could lead to regional tension in Israel. Also read: Fraud trial of Israel PM's wife Sara Netanyahu postponed: Court Again, the post was deleted, BUT couldn't fix the damage already done. Other controversies Apart from all this, Yair has been accused of being involved in multiple defamation cases as well. He has also clashed with the Israeli media and even called them "fake news" and "traitors".

From 'Screw you' Macron to strip club scandal: 6 times Yair Netanyahu landed up in controversy

French President Emmanuel Macron has made headlines and this time for his cologne. A newly released book 'The Tragedy of the Elys&eacute;e' by Le Parisien journalist Olivier Beaumont claimed that Macron wears &ldquo;industrial amounts&rdquo; of Dior Eau Savage and also freshens up &ldquo;at all hours of the day.&rdquo;&nbsp;
The book mentioned one of the former aides of the president who said that "When Emmanuel Macron enters the room, you can feel it..." due to his mesmerising perfume. The aide claimed that it is like the present is asserting his authority - &ldquo;almost of marking his territory&rdquo;.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-macron-and-zelensky-lead-wave-of-new-mobile-phone-diplomacy-8893739">Trump, Macron and Zelensky lead wave of new 'mobile phone diplomacy'</a>
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s not subtle, but it&rsquo;s fast. It means: &lsquo;watch out, here I come!&rsquo;. So much so that several staff members ended up joking about an expression they heard from one wing to the other: &lsquo;It smells like the president&rsquo;,&rdquo; the aide further said, Telegraph reported.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/world/iran-released-french-citizen-olivier-grondeau-after-almost-900-days-confirms-president-emmanuel-macron-8872832">Iran released French citizen Olivier Grondeau after almost 900-days, confirms President Emmanuel Macron</a>
"You only have to be in the Vestibule d&rsquo;honneur to know whether he has been there recently or not,&rdquo; a top Macron aide, Bruno Roger-Petit, said in the book.&nbsp;
As per the claim, Marcon has &ldquo;a bottle always to hand, particularly in one of the drawers of his desk." A 100 ml bottle of the Dior perfume retails at &pound;104.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-emmanuel-macron-uses-his-deepfakes-to-promote-ai-summit-8706626">French President Emmanuel Macron uses his deepfakes to promote AI summit</a>
&ldquo;Less-accustomed visitors may find themselves overcome by the floral and musky scent, as refined as it is powerful. It is a sign of one thing: that the president is in the building,&rdquo; the book claims, reported the Telegraph.
&ldquo;Just as Louis XIV made his perfumes an attribute of power when he paraded through the galleries of Versailles, Emmanuel Macron uses his as an element of his authority at the Elys&eacute;e,&rdquo; the book added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/avengers-doomsday-producer-and-head-of-marvel-studios-kevin-feige-teases-more-cast-reveals-8924931">Avengers: Doomsday producer and head of Marvel Studios Kevin Feige teases more cast reveals</a>
It further claimed that despite being together for almost 20 years now, Macron's wife still expresses surprise when someone asks about his cologne.&nbsp;
Brigitte is still surprised by this and lets out a loud &lsquo;ohhh&rsquo; when asked about her husband&rsquo;s smell," the book claimed.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | The book mentioned one of the former aides of the president who said that "When Emmanuel Macron enters the room, you can feel it..." due to his mesmerising perfume.

French President Emmanuel Macron has made headlines and this time for his cologne. A newly released book 'The Tragedy of the Elysée' by Le Parisien journalist Olivier Beaumont claimed that Macron wears “industrial amounts” of Dior Eau Savage and also freshens up “at all hours of the day.” The book mentioned one of the former aides of the president who said that "When Emmanuel Macron enters the room, you can feel it..." due to his mesmerising perfume. The aide claimed that it is like the present is asserting his authority - “almost of marking his territory”. Also read: Trump, Macron and Zelensky lead wave of new 'mobile phone diplomacy' “It’s not subtle, but it’s fast. It means: ‘watch out, here I come!’. So much so that several staff members ended up joking about an expression they heard from one wing to the other: ‘It smells like the president’,” the aide further said, Telegraph reported. Also read: Iran released French citizen Olivier Grondeau after almost 900-days, confirms President Emmanuel Macron "You only have to be in the Vestibule d’honneur to know whether he has been there recently or not,” a top Macron aide, Bruno Roger-Petit, said in the book. As per the claim, Marcon has “a bottle always to hand, particularly in one of the drawers of his desk." A 100 ml bottle of the Dior perfume retails at £104. Also read: French President Emmanuel Macron uses his deepfakes to promote AI summit “Less-accustomed visitors may find themselves overcome by the floral and musky scent, as refined as it is powerful. It is a sign of one thing: that the president is in the building,” the book claims, reported the Telegraph. “Just as Louis XIV made his perfumes an attribute of power when he paraded through the galleries of Versailles, Emmanuel Macron uses his as an element of his authority at the Elysée,” the book added. Also read: Avengers: Doomsday producer and head of Marvel Studios Kevin Feige teases more cast reveals It further claimed that despite being together for almost 20 years now, Macron's wife still expresses surprise when someone asks about his cologne. Brigitte is still surprised by this and lets out a loud ‘ohhh’ when asked about her husband’s smell," the book claimed. (With inputs from agencies)

'When Macron enters the room, you can feel it': Book reveals French president wears 'industrial amounts' of Dior cologne

Prime Minister Keir Starmer, along with French President Emmanuel Macron, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, took part in a virtual "coalition of the willing" meeting on Saturday (March 15). The leaders discussed ongoing support for Ukraine and the urgent need for Russia to commit to peace.
<h2>Starmer condemns Russia&rsquo;s attacks</h2>
During the meeting, Starmer denounced Russia&rsquo;s continued aggression, calling its actions in Ukraine &ldquo;barbaric.&rdquo; He said that if Russian President Vladimir Putin was genuinely committed to peace, he should agree to an immediate ceasefire.
"President Zelensky, who&rsquo;s with us this morning, has shown once again that Ukraine is the party of peace, because he has agreed to and committed to a 30-day unconditional ceasefire," Starmer said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-calls-on-ukraine-army-to-surrender-in-kursk-region-after-trumps-strong-appeal-8854315">Putin calls on Ukraine army to 'surrender' in Kursk region after Trump's 'strong' appeal</a>
He further added, "Now what we see, and this is centrepiece for our discussions today, is that Putin is the one trying to delay. In a sense, and you will know this, if Putin is serious about peace, it&rsquo;s very simple, he has to stop his barbaric attacks on Ukraine and agree to a ceasefire."
<h2>Call for stronger measures against Russia</h2>
Following the meeting, Starmer released a statement reaffirming the coalition&rsquo;s commitment to supporting Ukraine in the long term. He stressed the importance of security guarantees to prevent future Russian aggression and ensure lasting peace.
"We underlined our unwavering commitment to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Ukraine, both now and long into the future," he said.
The leaders welcomed the progress made in recent negotiations, particularly the breakthrough achieved in Jeddah, where President Zelensky accepted the US proposal for a 30-day ceasefire. However, they insisted that Russia must now demonstrate its willingness to end hostilities by agreeing to the ceasefire on equal terms.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ending-war-would-leave-putin-with-nothing-zelensky-urges-us-to-use-strength-of-america-to-convince-russia-8854181">'Ending war would leave Putin with nothing': Zelensky urges US to use 'strength of America' to convince Russia</a>
"The Kremlin&rsquo;s dithering and delay over President Trump&rsquo;s ceasefire proposal, and Russia&rsquo;s continued barbaric attacks on Ukraine, run entirely counter to President Putin&rsquo;s stated desire for peace," Starmer said.
<h2>Strengthening Ukraine&rsquo;s defence</h2>
The coalition also discussed plans to bolster Ukraine&rsquo;s security, ensuring that it can defend itself against future threats. Military planners are set to meet in the UK this week to develop strategies for supporting Ukraine&rsquo;s armed forces.
"We will build up Ukraine&rsquo;s own defences and armed forces, and be ready to deploy as a &lsquo;coalition of the willing&rsquo; in the event of a peace deal, to help secure Ukraine on the land, at sea and in the sky," Starmer added.
To enforce any potential ceasefire, leaders stressed the need for strong monitoring mechanisms to detect and call out violations. If Russia refuses to accept the ceasefire, Starmer said, the coalition would escalate its efforts to strengthen Ukraine while weakening Russia&rsquo;s war capabilities.
"We agreed that in the case that President Putin refused to agree to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, we would need to increase our efforts to strengthen Ukraine, weaken Russia&rsquo;s war machine and ratchet up pressure on President Putin to convince him to come to the negotiating table," he said.
<h2>Sanctions and military aid</h2>
In addition to military support, Starmer outlined plans to tighten economic sanctions against Russia and explore legal avenues to ensure Moscow pays for the destruction caused in Ukraine.
"We will accelerate our military support, tighten our sanctions on Russia&rsquo;s revenues and continue to explore all lawful routes to ensure that Russia pays for the damage it has done to Ukraine," he said.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: During the meeting, Starmer denounced Russia’s continued aggression, calling its actions in Ukraine “barbaric.” He said that if Russian President Vladimir Putin was genuinely committed to peace, he should agree to an immediate ceasefire.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer, along with French President Emmanuel Macron, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, took part in a virtual "coalition of the willing" meeting on Saturday (March 15). The leaders discussed ongoing support for Ukraine and the urgent need for Russia to commit to peace. Starmer condemns Russia’s attacks During the meeting, Starmer denounced Russia’s continued aggression, calling its actions in Ukraine “barbaric.” He said that if Russian President Vladimir Putin was genuinely committed to peace, he should agree to an immediate ceasefire. "President Zelensky, who’s with us this morning, has shown once again that Ukraine is the party of peace, because he has agreed to and committed to a 30-day unconditional ceasefire," Starmer said. Also read: Putin calls on Ukraine army to 'surrender' in Kursk region after Trump's 'strong' appeal He further added, "Now what we see, and this is centrepiece for our discussions today, is that Putin is the one trying to delay. In a sense, and you will know this, if Putin is serious about peace, it’s very simple, he has to stop his barbaric attacks on Ukraine and agree to a ceasefire." Call for stronger measures against Russia Following the meeting, Starmer released a statement reaffirming the coalition’s commitment to supporting Ukraine in the long term. He stressed the importance of security guarantees to prevent future Russian aggression and ensure lasting peace. "We underlined our unwavering commitment to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Ukraine, both now and long into the future," he said. The leaders welcomed the progress made in recent negotiations, particularly the breakthrough achieved in Jeddah, where President Zelensky accepted the US proposal for a 30-day ceasefire. However, they insisted that Russia must now demonstrate its willingness to end hostilities by agreeing to the ceasefire on equal terms. Also read: 'Ending war would leave Putin with nothing': Zelensky urges US to use 'strength of America' to convince Russia "The Kremlin’s dithering and delay over President Trump’s ceasefire proposal, and Russia’s continued barbaric attacks on Ukraine, run entirely counter to President Putin’s stated desire for peace," Starmer said. Strengthening Ukraine’s defence The coalition also discussed plans to bolster Ukraine’s security, ensuring that it can defend itself against future threats. Military planners are set to meet in the UK this week to develop strategies for supporting Ukraine’s armed forces. "We will build up Ukraine’s own defences and armed forces, and be ready to deploy as a ‘coalition of the willing’ in the event of a peace deal, to help secure Ukraine on the land, at sea and in the sky," Starmer added. To enforce any potential ceasefire, leaders stressed the need for strong monitoring mechanisms to detect and call out violations. If Russia refuses to accept the ceasefire, Starmer said, the coalition would escalate its efforts to strengthen Ukraine while weakening Russia’s war capabilities. "We agreed that in the case that President Putin refused to agree to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, we would need to increase our efforts to strengthen Ukraine, weaken Russia’s war machine and ratchet up pressure on President Putin to convince him to come to the negotiating table," he said. Sanctions and military aid In addition to military support, Starmer outlined plans to tighten economic sanctions against Russia and explore legal avenues to ensure Moscow pays for the destruction caused in Ukraine. "We will accelerate our military support, tighten our sanctions on Russia’s revenues and continue to explore all lawful routes to ensure that Russia pays for the damage it has done to Ukraine," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

'Will build Ukraine’s own defences':  UK, France, NATO unite to push Russia into ceasefire as Putin 'stalls'

France will consider extending the protection of its nuclear arsenal to its allies, French President Emmanuel Macron said, while warning that Europe needs to be ready for the United States to not "remain by our side" in the Ukraine war.

Moscow criticized Macron's proposal to extend France's nuclear umbrella to European countries

Advocating for an extension of nuclear deterrence, French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday (Mar 5) issued a warning on Russia, whose 'aggressive behaviour' did "not seem to know borders" after its invasion of Ukraine. France and its European allies had to react, said Macron, adding they must prepare for the worse in case the US leaves them high and dry.&nbsp;
Macron's national address came amid Washington's change of stance on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
The French president noted that Europe's future should not be decided in Washington or Moscow, as he said that the "threat from the east is returning and the innocence of these 30 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall is over".&nbsp;
In a shocking move, the US has announced on Wednesday it will stop military aid and intelligence support to Ukraine as diplomatic efforts have accelerated to end the war.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scheduled-a-meeting-us-ukraine-to-hold-talks-once-again-days-after-white-house-spat-8811646">'Scheduled a meeting': US, Ukraine to hold talks once again days after White House spat</a>
Macron said he wanted to open a debate on extending France's nuclear deterrent to other European nations amid rising security risks.&nbsp;
"Russia has become, at the moment I am speaking to you and for the years to come, a threat to France and Europe... It would be madness to remain a spectator in this world of danger," he said in the televised address.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-mohammad-sharifullah-top-terrorist-involved-in-kabul-airport-bombing-apprehended-by-us-8813833">Who is Mohammad Sharifullah, &lsquo;top terrorist&rsquo; involved in Kabul airport bombing apprehended by US?</a>
"I have decided to open up the strategic debate on the protection of our allies on the European continent through our nuclear deterrent," he added.&nbsp;
Macron's plans for French nuclear deterrence extension came in response to comments by the likely next German chancellor Friedrich Merz on extending the nuclear umbrella, adding that any decision on nuclear weapons use would remain with the French head of state.
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Macron also said that European military forces could be sent to Ukraine if a peace deal is signed to ensure that Russia does not invade its neighbour again.&nbsp;
A peace agreement for Ukraine would be backed "perhaps, by the deployment of European forces," Macron said.&nbsp;
"They won't go to fight today, they won't go to fight on the front line, but they would be there once a peace deal is signed, to guarantee it is fully respected," he said during the address.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-eam-jaishankar-holds-bilateral-talks-with-uk-pm-keir-starmer-in-london-over-ukraine-conflict-8814411">Indian EAM Jaishankar holds bilateral talks with UK PM Keir Starmer in London over Ukraine conflict</a>
Macron said European chiefs of staffs would meet in Paris next week to discuss how to support Ukraine after a peace deal.&nbsp;
<h2>Macron to visit Washington?&nbsp;</h2>
The French president is considering a joint visit to the US alongside Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.&nbsp;
"It is being considered that President Macron could possibly go again to Washington, with President Zelensky and his English counterpart," Sophie Primas told reporters after a cabinet meeting.&nbsp;
<h2>Macron of tariffs&nbsp;</h2>
Macron on Wednesday called planned US tariffs on European products "incomprehensible", adding that he hoped to "dissuade" President Donald Trump from imposing them.&nbsp;
"We have to brace for the United States to decide on customs tariffs on European products, like they have just confirmed against Canada and Mexico. This incomprehensible decision, as much for the US economy as for ours, will have consequences on some of our sectors," Macron said.&nbsp;
"I hope to convince and dissuade the US president" from such a move, he added.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | In response to the changing US stance on Ukraine, Macron suggests European military forces could be deployed post-peace deal to ensure its enforcement and stability.

Advocating for an extension of nuclear deterrence, French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday (Mar 5) issued a warning on Russia, whose 'aggressive behaviour' did "not seem to know borders" after its invasion of Ukraine. France and its European allies had to react, said Macron, adding they must prepare for the worse in case the US leaves them high and dry. Macron's national address came amid Washington's change of stance on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The French president noted that Europe's future should not be decided in Washington or Moscow, as he said that the "threat from the east is returning and the innocence of these 30 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall is over". In a shocking move, the US has announced on Wednesday it will stop military aid and intelligence support to Ukraine as diplomatic efforts have accelerated to end the war. Also read: 'Scheduled a meeting': US, Ukraine to hold talks once again days after White House spat Macron said he wanted to open a debate on extending France's nuclear deterrent to other European nations amid rising security risks. "Russia has become, at the moment I am speaking to you and for the years to come, a threat to France and Europe... It would be madness to remain a spectator in this world of danger," he said in the televised address. Also read: Who is Mohammad Sharifullah, ‘top terrorist’ involved in Kabul airport bombing apprehended by US? "I have decided to open up the strategic debate on the protection of our allies on the European continent through our nuclear deterrent," he added. Macron's plans for French nuclear deterrence extension came in response to comments by the likely next German chancellor Friedrich Merz on extending the nuclear umbrella, adding that any decision on nuclear weapons use would remain with the French head of state. Also read: Gene Hackman's death case: Investigators rule out gas leakage as cause of death Macron also said that European military forces could be sent to Ukraine if a peace deal is signed to ensure that Russia does not invade its neighbour again. A peace agreement for Ukraine would be backed "perhaps, by the deployment of European forces," Macron said. "They won't go to fight today, they won't go to fight on the front line, but they would be there once a peace deal is signed, to guarantee it is fully respected," he said during the address. Also read: Indian EAM Jaishankar holds bilateral talks with UK PM Keir Starmer in London over Ukraine conflict Macron said European chiefs of staffs would meet in Paris next week to discuss how to support Ukraine after a peace deal. Macron to visit Washington? The French president is considering a joint visit to the US alongside Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. "It is being considered that President Macron could possibly go again to Washington, with President Zelensky and his English counterpart," Sophie Primas told reporters after a cabinet meeting. Macron of tariffs Macron on Wednesday called planned US tariffs on European products "incomprehensible", adding that he hoped to "dissuade" President Donald Trump from imposing them. "We have to brace for the United States to decide on customs tariffs on European products, like they have just confirmed against Canada and Mexico. This incomprehensible decision, as much for the US economy as for ours, will have consequences on some of our sectors," Macron said. "I hope to convince and dissuade the US president" from such a move, he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Macron proposes French nuclear extension, says Russian aggression 'does not know borders'

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump</a> was initially unwilling to host Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky in Washington, but later changed his stance after French President Emmanuel Macron intervened, according to French media outlet BFMTV.
Citing a diplomatic source, BFMTV reported that Trump&rsquo;s team informed Ukraine on Wednesday that the scheduled meeting was being cancelled. This led to Zelensky reaching out to Macron for help.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-deflects-after-calling-ukraines-zelensky-a-dictator-uk-pm-keir-starmer-8763318" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Did I say that? I can't believe...': Trump disowns remark calling Zelensky a 'dictator'</a>
<h2>'Don't come, all meetings have been cancelled'</h2>
"Zelensky was supposed to come to Washington yesterday, but someone from the Trump administration told him, 'Listen, there's no point in chartering a plane, don't come, all meetings have been cancelled, President Trump won't receive you.' This caused panic in Kiev," BFMTV reporter Patrick Sauce was quoted as saying by TASS.
In response, Zelensky reportedly called Macron multiple times, urging him to convince Trump to reconsider, as he had hoped to finalise an agreement on Ukrainian minerals during his visit. He also added that the meeting "would have had strong symbolic significance."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-to-sign-trumps-mineral-deal-what-we-know-so-far-8763228" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Zelensky to sign Trump&rsquo;s mineral deal. What we know so far</a>
A French diplomatic source told BFMTV that Macron then contacted the White House and personally vouched for Zelensky, ultimately persuading Trump to reinstate the meeting.
Trump on February 26 confirmed that Zelensky would visit Washington on Friday to sign a minerals agreement and discuss other matters.
Trump&rsquo;s stance on Zelensky appeared to shift following his meeting with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer on Thursday (Feb 27). When asked if he would apologise for previously calling Zelensky a "dictator," Trump responded that he could not recall making such a statement. He also described the Ukrainian president as "very brave."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-insists-putin-will-honour-peace-deal-with-ukraine-downplays-need-for-military-support-8763815" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump insists Putin will honour peace deal with Ukraine, refuses to commit to US forces on ground</a>
The meeting with Starmer focused on efforts to end the war between Ukraine and Russia, with Trump saying that peace negotiations were "moving along pretty rapidly."
These discussions come in the wake of the Trump administration&rsquo;s surprise decision to engage in high-level talks with Moscow for the first time since Russia&rsquo;s invasion of Ukraine more than three years ago.
Trump had earlier appeared to place blame on Zelensky for the conflict, criticising him for not initiating peace talks sooner.
"You've been there for three years. You should have ended it... You should have never started it. You could have made a deal," Trump had said last Tuesday. 
(With inputs from agencies)

World: US President Donald Trump on February 26 confirmed that Zelensky would visit Washington on Friday to sign a minerals agreement and discuss other matters.

US President Donald Trump was initially unwilling to host Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky in Washington, but later changed his stance after French President Emmanuel Macron intervened, according to French media outlet BFMTV. Citing a diplomatic source, BFMTV reported that Trump’s team informed Ukraine on Wednesday that the scheduled meeting was being cancelled. This led to Zelensky reaching out to Macron for help. Also read: 'Did I say that? I can't believe...': Trump disowns remark calling Zelensky a 'dictator' 'Don't come, all meetings have been cancelled' "Zelensky was supposed to come to Washington yesterday, but someone from the Trump administration told him, 'Listen, there's no point in chartering a plane, don't come, all meetings have been cancelled, President Trump won't receive you.' This caused panic in Kiev," BFMTV reporter Patrick Sauce was quoted as saying by TASS. In response, Zelensky reportedly called Macron multiple times, urging him to convince Trump to reconsider, as he had hoped to finalise an agreement on Ukrainian minerals during his visit. He also added that the meeting "would have had strong symbolic significance." Also read: Zelensky to sign Trump’s mineral deal. What we know so far A French diplomatic source told BFMTV that Macron then contacted the White House and personally vouched for Zelensky, ultimately persuading Trump to reinstate the meeting. Trump on February 26 confirmed that Zelensky would visit Washington on Friday to sign a minerals agreement and discuss other matters. Trump’s stance on Zelensky appeared to shift following his meeting with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer on Thursday (Feb 27). When asked if he would apologise for previously calling Zelensky a "dictator," Trump responded that he could not recall making such a statement. He also described the Ukrainian president as "very brave." Also read: Trump insists Putin will honour peace deal with Ukraine, refuses to commit to US forces on ground The meeting with Starmer focused on efforts to end the war between Ukraine and Russia, with Trump saying that peace negotiations were "moving along pretty rapidly." These discussions come in the wake of the Trump administration’s surprise decision to engage in high-level talks with Moscow for the first time since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine more than three years ago. Trump had earlier appeared to place blame on Zelensky for the conflict, criticising him for not initiating peace talks sooner. "You've been there for three years. You should have ended it... You should have never started it. You could have made a deal," Trump had said last Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Don’t come’: Trump cancelled Zelensky’s Washington visit until Macron stepped in to save the day

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Massive protest in France amid political instability, anger against Macron

Which European leaders will join Zelensky and Trump at the White House?