France foreign minister on Monday (September 19) warned Iran that nuclear deal will not get any better while appealing the Islamic republic to accept the proposal to revived nuclear deal. Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna didn't rule out a meeting between French President Emmanuel Macron and his Iranian counterpart Ebrahim Raisi during United Nations General Assembly in New York.

"We'll see what this week brings," she told reporters. "The window of opportunity seems ready to close again."&nbsp;

"We are repeatedly saying... there is no better offer for Iran," she said. "It's up to them to make a decision."&nbsp;

Nuclear deal between Iran and world powers was struck in 2015. But former US president Donald Trump unilaterally pulled US out of the deal. Negotiations have been going on for a year and a half to revive the nuclear deal.

The Biden administration says the deal remains the best way to restrict Iran's nuclear program but has been increasingly pessimistic that Tehran will agree to a compromise negotiated by European Union mediators.&nbsp;

Colonna said that she met Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Monday.

She said she urged him to allow a security zone around the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant in Ukraine, whose occupation by Moscow has raised mounting concerns.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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France foreign minister on Monday (September 19) warned Iran that nuclear deal will not get any better while appealing the Islamic republic to accept the proposal to revived nuclear deal.

France foreign minister on Monday (September 19) warned Iran that nuclear deal will not get any better while appealing the Islamic republic to accept the proposal to revived nuclear deal. Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna didn't rule out a meeting between French President Emmanuel Macron and his Iranian counterpart Ebrahim Raisi during United Nations General Assembly in New York. "We'll see what this week brings," she told reporters. "The window of opportunity seems ready to close again." "We are repeatedly saying... there is no better offer for Iran," she said. "It's up to them to make a decision." Nuclear deal between Iran and world powers was struck in 2015. But former US president Donald Trump unilaterally pulled US out of the deal. Negotiations have been going on for a year and a half to revive the nuclear deal. The Biden administration says the deal remains the best way to restrict Iran's nuclear program but has been increasingly pessimistic that Tehran will agree to a compromise negotiated by European Union mediators. Colonna said that she met Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Monday. She said she urged him to allow a security zone around the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant in Ukraine, whose occupation by Moscow has raised mounting concerns. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Iran nuclear deal will not get any better, warns France 

Taking a greener step to combat climate change, France has come up with a new solution to reduce the impact of heat. The authorities are replacing asphalt playgrounds with greener and cooler sites.

WION Climate Tracker: France to replace asphalt playgrounds in schools

Alain Robert, the free climber dubbed the "French Spiderman", scaled a 48-storey skyscraper in Paris on Saturday, fulfilling a goal he had set for himself once he reached the age of 60.

Dressed in red, Robert raised his arms aloft as he reached the top of the 187-metre (613-foot) Tour TotalEnergies building, which towers over the French capital's La Defense business district.

"I want to send people the message that being 60 is nothing. You can still do sport, be active, do fabulous things," said Robert, whose 60th birthday was last month.

"I promised myself several years ago that when I reached 60, I would climb that tower again because 60 symbolises retirement age in France and I thought that was a nice touch." he told Reuters.

Robert, who also wanted to use the climb to raise awareness about the need for climate change action, had already climbed the TotalEnergies tower on numerous occasions.

He began climbing in 1975, training on the cliffs near his hometown of Valence in southern France. He took up solo climbing in 1977 and rapidly became a top climber.

Since then, he has climbed more than 150 towering structures around the world including Dubai's Burj Khalifa - the world's tallest building, the Eiffel Tower, and San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge.

Often climbing without permission, he has been arrested repeatedly. He climbs without a harness, using only his bare hands, a pair of climbing shoes, and a bag of powdered chalk to wipe off the sweat.

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&nbsp;

Alain Robert, the free climber dubbed the "French Spiderman", scaled a 48-storey skyscraper in Paris on Saturday, fulfilling a goal he had set for himself once he reached the age of 60.

Alain Robert, the free climber dubbed the "French Spiderman", scaled a 48-storey skyscraper in Paris on Saturday, fulfilling a goal he had set for himself once he reached the age of 60. Dressed in red, Robert raised his arms aloft as he reached the top of the 187-metre (613-foot) Tour TotalEnergies building, which towers over the French capital's La Defense business district. "I want to send people the message that being 60 is nothing. You can still do sport, be active, do fabulous things," said Robert, whose 60th birthday was last month. "I promised myself several years ago that when I reached 60, I would climb that tower again because 60 symbolises retirement age in France and I thought that was a nice touch." he told Reuters. Robert, who also wanted to use the climb to raise awareness about the need for climate change action, had already climbed the TotalEnergies tower on numerous occasions. He began climbing in 1975, training on the cliffs near his hometown of Valence in southern France. He took up solo climbing in 1977 and rapidly became a top climber. Since then, he has climbed more than 150 towering structures around the world including Dubai's Burj Khalifa - the world's tallest building, the Eiffel Tower, and San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge. Often climbing without permission, he has been arrested repeatedly. He climbs without a harness, using only his bare hands, a pair of climbing shoes, and a bag of powdered chalk to wipe off the sweat. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'French Spiderman' climbs a 48-storey tower to ring in his 60th birthday

Metropolitan Dimitrios Ploumis, the head of the Orthodox Church in France, has announced an internal investigation into child abuse at a monastery.

Three brothers told Liberation newspaper that they had been repeatedly raped at the Orthodox monastery of Saint-Nicolas-de-la-Dalmerie in the late 1970s when they were children.

During the interview with the Liberation newspaper, they revealed that they were eight, 10 and 12 years old respectively when they had been abused.

In response, the head of the Orthodox Church in France Metropolitan Dimitrios "Reading this article and the information it contains, their statement is well-founded."

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Promising to seek and establish the truth, Dimitrios highlighted that the alleged assaults happened too long ago to be prosecuted in the French courts.

"That is why we are committed to conducting an open and transparent investigation into this monastery, its past and its present."

Previously, a major investigation released found that French clergy sexually abused more than 200,000 children over the past 70 years.

After a series of sexual abuse scandals around the world, the bombshell report rocked the Roman Catholic Church.

Pointing out that the church needed to reform the way it approached those issues to rebuild trust with society, the report revealed that its practices on sexuality and sanctity created blind spots which were exploited by the clergy.

Between 1970 and 2015, the Catholic Church had received more than 900 complaints involving over 3,000 instances of child sex abuse in England and Wales.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Metropolitan Dimitrios Ploumis, the head of the Orthodox Church in France, has announced an internal investigation into child abuse at a monastery. Three brothers told Liberation newspaper that they had been repeatedly raped at the Orthodox monastery of Saint-Nicolas-de-la-Dalmerie in the late 1970s when they were children.

Metropolitan Dimitrios Ploumis, the head of the Orthodox Church in France, has announced an internal investigation into child abuse at a monastery. Three brothers told Liberation newspaper that they had been repeatedly raped at the Orthodox monastery of Saint-Nicolas-de-la-Dalmerie in the late 1970s when they were children. During the interview with the Liberation newspaper, they revealed that they were eight, 10 and 12 years old respectively when they had been abused. In response, the head of the Orthodox Church in France Metropolitan Dimitrios "Reading this article and the information it contains, their statement is well-founded." × Promising to seek and establish the truth, Dimitrios highlighted that the alleged assaults happened too long ago to be prosecuted in the French courts. "That is why we are committed to conducting an open and transparent investigation into this monastery, its past and its present." Previously, a major investigation released found that French clergy sexually abused more than 200,000 children over the past 70 years. After a series of sexual abuse scandals around the world, the bombshell report rocked the Roman Catholic Church. Pointing out that the church needed to reform the way it approached those issues to rebuild trust with society, the report revealed that its practices on sexuality and sanctity created blind spots which were exploited by the clergy. Between 1970 and 2015, the Catholic Church had received more than 900 complaints involving over 3,000 instances of child sex abuse in England and Wales. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Head of France's Orthodox Church announces internal investigation into historic child abuse

The French police have apprehended a suspect and his accomplices, part of a highly sophisticated robbery ring that targeted first-class passengers on high-speed French trains.

The French police have apprehended a suspect and his accomplices, part of a highly sophisticated robbery ring that targeted first-class passengers on high-speed French trains. According to a BBC report, the man caught, alongside two others confessed to carrying out the thefts on French trains. Moreover, the police, based on intel and statements by the apprehended conducted a raid at a small flat near Marseille's Saint Charles station where it found a stockpile of stolen goods. 170 wallets, 150 pieces of luggage, hundreds of pairs of sunglasses, and $137,000 in small denomination of cash among other items have been discovered in the flat. The gang, which has stolen items worth $300,000, according to the police, usually operated as a high-functioning group. [#Interpellations] Les #policiers des Bouches-du-Rhône ont mis fin à un réseau de vol des voyageurs TGV de 1ère classe entre #Nice et #Marseille. 👉4 mois d’enquête 👉300 000€ de butin retrouvé (montres, bijoux, valises, appareils photo...) 👉3 individus interpellés@PoliceNat13 pic.twitter.com/nFTxZqBfkd — Police nationale (@PoliceNationale) September 16, 2022 × According to the authorities, the men in their 40s and 50s used to board the train from different parts of the country and to different routes. One might take a ticket from Paris to Nice while the other would take a ticket from Paris to Marseille. WATCH | Lebanon: 'Robbery' in broad daylight, people inside the bank break into panic × One of the gang members that has been caught would wear a wig, elaborate costume, and make-up and disguise himself as a woman before sitting beside the unsuspecting passengers. The skilled accomplices of the disguised man would then cleverly nick the wallet and luggage left at people’s feet or bags left unattended. After doing the needful, they would get off at the next station without any fuss. The gang came under the spotlight after a woman, leaving the train at Aix-en-Provence station, earlier this year reported to the police about a robbery. The woman had been robbed of her bag which contained $50,000 worth of jewellery. Read more: Barcelona striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang assaulted in armed robbery at his home Since then, the authorities had been working to nab the gang which they claimed was 'perfectly organised' with each member knowing their role well. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

A movie-esque train theft ring busted by French police; accused wearing wigs robbed victims

Two ships carrying reprocessed nuclear fuel destined for Japan set sail Saturday morning from northern France, an AFP photographer said, despite criticism from environmental campaigners.

The fuel was due to leave the northern French port city of Cherbourg earlier this month but was delayed by the breakdown of loading equipment.

Environmental activists have denounced the practice of transporting such highly radioactive materials, calling it irresponsible.

The previous transport of MOX fuel to Japan in September 2021 drew protests from the environmental group Greenpeace.&nbsp;

MOX fuel is a mixture of reprocessed plutonium and uranium.

"The Pacific Heron and Pacific Egret, the specialised ships belonging to British company PNTL, left Cherbourg harbour on September 17. They will ensure the shipment of MOX nuclear fuel to Japan," French nuclear technology group Orano said in a statement Saturday.

They are bound for Japan for use in a power plant and Orano said it expected the shipment to arrive in November.

Japan lacks facilities to process waste from its own nuclear reactors and sends most of it overseas, particularly to France.

The operation was carried out "successfully", Orano said, and it is the second shipment that arrived in Cherbourg from a plant in La Hague, located 20 kilometres (12 miles) away, after the first came on September 7.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-anti-monarchy-protests-in-britain-citizens-say-not-my-king-ask-who-elected-him-517125">&nbsp;IN PICS| Anti-monarchy protests in Britain: Citizens say 'Not my King', ask 'who elected him?'</a>

Yannick Rousselet of Greenpeace France previously denounced the shipment.

"Transporting such dangerous materials from a nuclear proliferation point of view is completely irresponsible," he said last month.

MOX is composed of 92 per cent uranium oxide and eight per cent plutonium oxide, according to Orano.&nbsp;

The plutonium "is not the same as that used by the military," it said.

 
&nbsp;

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Two ships carrying reprocessed nuclear fuel destined for Japan set sail Saturday morning from northern France, an AFP photographer said, despite criticism from environmental campaigners.

Two ships carrying reprocessed nuclear fuel destined for Japan set sail Saturday morning from northern France, an AFP photographer said, despite criticism from environmental campaigners. The fuel was due to leave the northern French port city of Cherbourg earlier this month but was delayed by the breakdown of loading equipment. Environmental activists have denounced the practice of transporting such highly radioactive materials, calling it irresponsible. The previous transport of MOX fuel to Japan in September 2021 drew protests from the environmental group Greenpeace. MOX fuel is a mixture of reprocessed plutonium and uranium. "The Pacific Heron and Pacific Egret, the specialised ships belonging to British company PNTL, left Cherbourg harbour on September 17. They will ensure the shipment of MOX nuclear fuel to Japan," French nuclear technology group Orano said in a statement Saturday. They are bound for Japan for use in a power plant and Orano said it expected the shipment to arrive in November. Japan lacks facilities to process waste from its own nuclear reactors and sends most of it overseas, particularly to France. The operation was carried out "successfully", Orano said, and it is the second shipment that arrived in Cherbourg from a plant in La Hague, located 20 kilometres (12 miles) away, after the first came on September 7. Also Read: IN PICS| Anti-monarchy protests in Britain: Citizens say 'Not my King', ask 'who elected him?' Yannick Rousselet of Greenpeace France previously denounced the shipment. "Transporting such dangerous materials from a nuclear proliferation point of view is completely irresponsible," he said last month. MOX is composed of 92 per cent uranium oxide and eight per cent plutonium oxide, according to Orano. The plutonium "is not the same as that used by the military," it said.

France sends latest nuclear shipment to Japan despite criticism from environmental campaigners

France: Wildfire has already ravaged around 1800 hectares of forest land since Monday, forcing the evacuation of residents amid record high temperatures with the mercury levels rising over 39 degrees Celsius in some parts.

France battles blaze in the southwest, about 1800 hectares of forest ravaged

India and France are marking 75 years of diplomatic relations. To further strengthen ties, the French foreign minister is in India for a three-day visit. The French foreign minister met the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.

French foreign minister Catherine Colonna in New Delhi to strengthen ties

The European Court of Human Rights ruled on Wednesday that France must reconsider its refusals to accept the repatriation requests of two French women who joined the Islamic State in Syria together with their partners and the children they gave birth to there.&nbsp;

The court determined that France's reluctance to let&nbsp;the women and children to return to their country of origin violated their constitutional right to "enter the territory of the state of which (one) is a national."&nbsp;

After France refused to let the&nbsp;daughters and grandchildren return, the parents of the two women took their case to the European court in Strasbourg. They are currently being held in camps in northeastern Syria that are managed by Kurds.

The families had argued that the women and children's lengthy incarceration in Syria breached their right to respect for family life by subjecting them to cruel and inhumane treatment.&nbsp;

France has long fought requests from human rights organisations for return of women who joined the Islamist terrorist group, claiming that it views them as "fighters" who should be punished where they are alleged to have committed crimes.

The court determined that because France "was not exercising its jurisdiction there," it should not be held accountable for the living conditions in the Syrian refugee camps.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/juxtapose-dramatic-expansion-of-bahrain-by-building-land-on-sea-1987-vs-2022-515720">Before and after images show dramatic expansion of Bahrain by building land on sea: 1987 vs 2022</a>

The verdict did not establish a broad right to repatriation, according to Nicolas Hervieu, a legal expert at the Paris Institute of Political Studies, because "France is not responsible for their life and bodily integrity in and of itself."&nbsp;

Olivier Veran, a government spokesman, responded to the judgement by claiming that France had "not waited for the European court decision" to move forward and citing the July repatriation of 16 women and 35 children, some of whom were orphans, on chartered aircraft as evidence.

That action ran against France's general rule that mothers should not accompany children back home.&nbsp;

According to rights organisations, 160 kids and 75 French women are still housed in the camps. According to Human Rights Watch, they are among the more than 40,000 foreign nationals in jail, most of whom are Iraqis.

(with inputs from agencies)

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The European Court of Human Rights ruled on Wednesday that France must reconsider its refusals to accept the repatriation requests of two French women who joined the Islamic State in Syria together with their partners and the children they gave birth to there.

The European Court of Human Rights ruled on Wednesday that France must reconsider its refusals to accept the repatriation requests of two French women who joined the Islamic State in Syria together with their partners and the children they gave birth to there. The court determined that France's reluctance to let the women and children to return to their country of origin violated their constitutional right to "enter the territory of the state of which (one) is a national." After France refused to let the daughters and grandchildren return, the parents of the two women took their case to the European court in Strasbourg. They are currently being held in camps in northeastern Syria that are managed by Kurds. The families had argued that the women and children's lengthy incarceration in Syria breached their right to respect for family life by subjecting them to cruel and inhumane treatment. France has long fought requests from human rights organisations for return of women who joined the Islamist terrorist group, claiming that it views them as "fighters" who should be punished where they are alleged to have committed crimes. The court determined that because France "was not exercising its jurisdiction there," it should not be held accountable for the living conditions in the Syrian refugee camps. Also Read: Before and after images show dramatic expansion of Bahrain by building land on sea: 1987 vs 2022 The verdict did not establish a broad right to repatriation, according to Nicolas Hervieu, a legal expert at the Paris Institute of Political Studies, because "France is not responsible for their life and bodily integrity in and of itself." Olivier Veran, a government spokesman, responded to the judgement by claiming that France had "not waited for the European court decision" to move forward and citing the July repatriation of 16 women and 35 children, some of whom were orphans, on chartered aircraft as evidence. That action ran against France's general rule that mothers should not accompany children back home. According to rights organisations, 160 kids and 75 French women are still housed in the camps. According to Human Rights Watch, they are among the more than 40,000 foreign nationals in jail, most of whom are Iraqis. (with inputs from agencies)

France must re-examine repatriation requests of women who travelled to Syria to join IS

European countries are looking at alternative means of energy supply as global gas and oil prices continue to soar. With the winter nearing, France is looking at reopening coak-fired power stations.

WION Climate Tracker | France considers to reopen its coal-fired power station

Tuesday saw the announcement by France's civil aviation authority that it has requested airlines cancel 50% of their flights for Friday due to planned air traffic controller strikes for greater pay.&nbsp;

The SNCTA ( Syndicat majoritaire des contrôleurs aériens) union, the largest among controller unions, called for the strike, which the DGAC ( Direction générale de l'Aviation civile) authority said is expected to result in significant delays in mainland France and might affect flights to other parts of Europe.&nbsp;

It claimed to be in talks with the manager of aviation traffic at Eurocontrol to suggest alternate routes for planes to use in order to avoid French airspace.

For its side, the SNCTA claimed that the strike was a reaction to high inflation, which is reducing its members' purchasing power, and concerns over "future recruitments."&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/juxtapose-dramatic-expansion-of-bahrain-by-building-land-on-sea-1987-vs-2022-515720">Before and after images show dramatic expansion of Bahrain by building land on sea: 1987 vs 2022</a>

The action is being taken as the French government gets ready to present its 2023 budget, which the union claims does not ensure the DGAC's financial stability and may restrict its ability to give salary increases.&nbsp;

The strike threat, which would also affect flights to the nation's overseas territories, was not immediately addressed by Air France, the country's leading airline.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Tuesday saw the announcement by France's civil aviation authority that it has requested airlines cancel 50% of their flights for Friday due to planned air traffic controller strikes for greater pay.

Tuesday saw the announcement by France's civil aviation authority that it has requested airlines cancel 50% of their flights for Friday due to planned air traffic controller strikes for greater pay. The SNCTA ( Syndicat majoritaire des contrôleurs aériens) union, the largest among controller unions, called for the strike, which the DGAC ( Direction générale de l'Aviation civile) authority said is expected to result in significant delays in mainland France and might affect flights to other parts of Europe. It claimed to be in talks with the manager of aviation traffic at Eurocontrol to suggest alternate routes for planes to use in order to avoid French airspace. For its side, the SNCTA claimed that the strike was a reaction to high inflation, which is reducing its members' purchasing power, and concerns over "future recruitments." Also Read: Before and after images show dramatic expansion of Bahrain by building land on sea: 1987 vs 2022 The action is being taken as the French government gets ready to present its 2023 budget, which the union claims does not ensure the DGAC's financial stability and may restrict its ability to give salary increases. The strike threat, which would also affect flights to the nation's overseas territories, was not immediately addressed by Air France, the country's leading airline. (with inputs from agencies)

France cancels half its flights for Friday as traffic controllers plan to strike for higher wages

France continues to reel under scorching heat and the country saw record temperatures in September as the heatwave continues to drift up from Morocco. The Southwest region is the worst hit with mercury rising to 39 degree celsius.

France continues to reel under heat wave; Southwest region worst hit

As tensions over Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant continues to escalate, Russian President Vladimir Putin has now warned his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron of potential catastrophic consequences because of the repeated attacks at the facility from Ukraine's side.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and French counterpart Emmanuel Macron hold talks over nuke plant

Let us take a look at stories generating interest across WION's social media channels.

Trending on WION: Historic library in Paris set to reopen after 12 years

National Library of France in Paris is all set to reopen after 12 years of renovation work. The library will be opened to all from September 17. The library is the repository of extensive historical collections.

Historic library in Paris to reopen after 12 years due to renovation work

Europe is facing an energy crunch, the situation was triggered by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Now the lighting of public buildings has been stopped in the city of Lille in northern France in order to reduce energy consumption.

Lights out at public buildings in France's Lille; aims to cut 7% of city's energy usage

National Library of France to reopen after 12 years on September 17

As Europe deals with rising energy prices, the crisis will force the Eiffel Tower, one of the most visited monuments in the world, whose sparkling lights characterise the night time in the Paris skyline, to go dark early.

However, to honour Queen Elisabeth II's passing on Thursday night, the Eiffel Tower went dark, a remarkable gesture.

The decision to reduce lighting is viewed as a means to serve as an example of the overall decrease in the city's light.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/only-thing-reliable-from-russia-is-lies-faced-with-energy-crisis-germany-takes-a-u-turn-to-nuclear-energy-513306">Also read |&nbsp;'Only thing reliable from Russia is lies': Faced with energy crisis Germany takes a U-turn to nuclear energy</a>

The tower's nighttime lighting accounts for 4 per cent of its annual energy consumption.

The continent is dealing with soaring energy prices, made worse by the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Paris is expected to recommend this week that the monument will go black more than an hour earlier than usual.

The Eiffel Tower currently has a sophisticated lighting system that illuminates it from dark until one in the morning, giving it a golden glow. In addition, 20,000 flashing bulbs give the monument a five-minute glitter every hour starting at dusk. The tower will no longer shine at midnight if the city's hall proposes to have it go dark at 11:45 pm when the last visitors leave.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-protests-across-europe-over-energy-crisis-513394">Also read |&nbsp;In pics | Protests across Europe over energy crisis</a>

Tower's management head, Jean Francois Martins, said, "It’s a highly symbolic gesture – part of the growing awareness around energy sobriety," The Guardian reported.&nbsp;

The monument nearly receives at least 20,000 visitors each day.

By the end of September, Marseille's monuments, including the Pharo Palace, will turn off the lights earlier as well. Other authorities also plan to reduce the nighttime lighting of renowned locations.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As Europe deals with rising energy prices, the crisis will force the Eiffel Tower, one of the most visited monuments in the world, whose sparkling lights characterise the night time in the Paris skyline, to go dark early.

As Europe deals with rising energy prices, the crisis will force the Eiffel Tower, one of the most visited monuments in the world, whose sparkling lights characterise the night time in the Paris skyline, to go dark early. However, to honour Queen Elisabeth II's passing on Thursday night, the Eiffel Tower went dark, a remarkable gesture. The decision to reduce lighting is viewed as a means to serve as an example of the overall decrease in the city's light. Also read | 'Only thing reliable from Russia is lies': Faced with energy crisis Germany takes a U-turn to nuclear energy The tower's nighttime lighting accounts for 4 per cent of its annual energy consumption. The continent is dealing with soaring energy prices, made worse by the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Paris is expected to recommend this week that the monument will go black more than an hour earlier than usual. The Eiffel Tower currently has a sophisticated lighting system that illuminates it from dark until one in the morning, giving it a golden glow. In addition, 20,000 flashing bulbs give the monument a five-minute glitter every hour starting at dusk. The tower will no longer shine at midnight if the city's hall proposes to have it go dark at 11:45 pm when the last visitors leave. Also read | In pics | Protests across Europe over energy crisis Tower's management head, Jean Francois Martins, said, "It’s a highly symbolic gesture – part of the growing awareness around energy sobriety," The Guardian reported. The monument nearly receives at least 20,000 visitors each day. By the end of September, Marseille's monuments, including the Pharo Palace, will turn off the lights earlier as well. Other authorities also plan to reduce the nighttime lighting of renowned locations. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Amid energy crisis in Europe, Eiffel Tower to go dark early 

North Korea has passed a new law, declaring itself to be a nuclear weapon state. According to the state's agency, North Korea's leader, Kim Jong-un, has called the decision irreversible. Meanwhile, France has condemned the new law and called it a 'threat to international and regional peace and security'.

France condemns North Korea's new nuclear law, calls it a 'threat to international peace'

As a "threat to international and regional peace and security," France denounced North Korea's passage of a legislation announcing its preparedness to conduct nuclear strikes on Friday.

After North Korean state media earlier on Friday claimed that Pyongyang had enacted a law allowing for preventative strikes, including in the face of conventional warfare, the foreign ministry made its announcement.

"This new escalation on the part of the North Korean authorities represents a threat to international and regional peace and security," said a ministry spokeswoman.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/paris-shuts-off-eiffel-tower-lights-rios-christ-the-redeemer-lit-up-in-tribute-to-queen-elizabeth-514441">France</a> "notes with great concern the increasingly aggressive declarations from North Korea", she added.

Since North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un has declared that the country's nuclear status is now "irreversible," Pyongyang's move practically ends the chance of denuclearization discussions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-france-move-unsc-to-declare-two-pakistanis-as-global-terrorists-514155">India, France move UNSC to declare two Pakistanis as global terrorists</a>

An increased level of animosity exists between the North and the South at the time of the announcement.

As well as conducting a record number of weapons tests this year, Pyongyang has blamed Seoul for the COVID-19 outbreak in its territory.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As a "threat to international and regional peace and security," France denounced North Korea's passage of a legislation announcing its preparedness to conduct nuclear strikes on Friday.

As a "threat to international and regional peace and security," France denounced North Korea's passage of a legislation announcing its preparedness to conduct nuclear strikes on Friday. After North Korean state media earlier on Friday claimed that Pyongyang had enacted a law allowing for preventative strikes, including in the face of conventional warfare, the foreign ministry made its announcement. "This new escalation on the part of the North Korean authorities represents a threat to international and regional peace and security," said a ministry spokeswoman. France "notes with great concern the increasingly aggressive declarations from North Korea", she added. Since North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un has declared that the country's nuclear status is now "irreversible," Pyongyang's move practically ends the chance of denuclearization discussions. Also read | India, France move UNSC to declare two Pakistanis as global terrorists An increased level of animosity exists between the North and the South at the time of the announcement. As well as conducting a record number of weapons tests this year, Pyongyang has blamed Seoul for the COVID-19 outbreak in its territory. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION live TV here:

France calls North Korea's nuclear policy a 'threat to peace'

France is set to co-sponsor a proposal by India before the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for sanctions against two terrorists belonging to the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) group. If passed, Mohiuddin Aurangzeb Alamgir and Ali Kashif Jan would be designated as global terrorists, as per reports. This comes ahead of France’s foreign minister, Catherine Colonna’s first visit to India scheduled for September 14 and 15.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, on April 11, the ministry of home affairs (MHA) had released two separate notifications designating Mohiuddin Aurangzeb Alamgir (alias Mujahid Bhai) and Ali Kashif Jan (alias Jan Ali Kashif), the masterminds of the Pathankot and Pulwama attacks, as terrorists under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Act (UAPA). Notably, JeM is also designated as a terrorist organisation under the UAPA Act.&nbsp;

According to the notification, Aurangzeb Alamgir, who is said to be a resident of Bahawalpur in Pakistan, was allegedly the key conspirator, fundraiser and infiltrating commander of the 2019 attack on the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy in Pulwama. The terror attack by the JeM suicide bomber killed at least 40 CRPF personnel. Additionally, he is also a senior member of the terror outfit and responsible for routing funds collected from Pakistani nationals to Kashmir in India, the officials said. Alamgir is deemed responsible for coordinating several attacks in the Valley over the years and in the infiltration of Afghan terrorists into Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Kashif Jan is said to be the operational commander and a core planning committee member of JeM, said officials. He is a resident of Charsadda, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in Pakistan, and was allegedly the handler of 2016 Pathankot Air Force Station terror attack in India. He is also under investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in several ongoing cases.&nbsp;

The MHA notification states that he is one of the key commanders of JeM operating out of the Sialkot sector across the Line of Control (LOC) and is responsible for recruitment and training of cadres and planning attacks on India.&nbsp;

However, even though India and France have moved this proposal, the duo would be designated as global terrorists only if none of the four permanent members – United States, United Kingdom, China, and Russia exercises a veto. In the past, China has blocked several such proposals by India and its allies, while other countries’ vote could swing either way.

The French foreign minister’s visit could further strengthen the relations and strategic ties between India and France. According to officials, during her visit, Colonna will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and will discuss the conflict in Ukraine, the critical situation in Taiwan, and the threat of terror and radicalization from the Af-Pak region. The minister will also discuss the Indo-Pacific, cyber security and civil nuclear power station project being set up at Jaitapur in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

The Jaitapur nuclear power project would be the world’s most powerful nuclear plant, said Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet, Consul General of France during an interview. The project is a collaboration between French company Electricité de France (EDF) and Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL).

France is set to co-sponsor a proposal by India before the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for sanctions against two terrorists belonging to the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) group.

France is set to co-sponsor a proposal by India before the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for sanctions against two terrorists belonging to the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) group. If passed, Mohiuddin Aurangzeb Alamgir and Ali Kashif Jan would be designated as global terrorists, as per reports. This comes ahead of France’s foreign minister, Catherine Colonna’s first visit to India scheduled for September 14 and 15. Earlier this year, on April 11, the ministry of home affairs (MHA) had released two separate notifications designating Mohiuddin Aurangzeb Alamgir (alias Mujahid Bhai) and Ali Kashif Jan (alias Jan Ali Kashif), the masterminds of the Pathankot and Pulwama attacks, as terrorists under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Act (UAPA). Notably, JeM is also designated as a terrorist organisation under the UAPA Act. According to the notification, Aurangzeb Alamgir, who is said to be a resident of Bahawalpur in Pakistan, was allegedly the key conspirator, fundraiser and infiltrating commander of the 2019 attack on the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy in Pulwama. The terror attack by the JeM suicide bomber killed at least 40 CRPF personnel. Additionally, he is also a senior member of the terror outfit and responsible for routing funds collected from Pakistani nationals to Kashmir in India, the officials said. Alamgir is deemed responsible for coordinating several attacks in the Valley over the years and in the infiltration of Afghan terrorists into Jammu and Kashmir. On the other hand, Kashif Jan is said to be the operational commander and a core planning committee member of JeM, said officials. He is a resident of Charsadda, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in Pakistan, and was allegedly the handler of 2016 Pathankot Air Force Station terror attack in India. He is also under investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in several ongoing cases. The MHA notification states that he is one of the key commanders of JeM operating out of the Sialkot sector across the Line of Control (LOC) and is responsible for recruitment and training of cadres and planning attacks on India. However, even though India and France have moved this proposal, the duo would be designated as global terrorists only if none of the four permanent members – United States, United Kingdom, China, and Russia exercises a veto. In the past, China has blocked several such proposals by India and its allies, while other countries’ vote could swing either way. The French foreign minister’s visit could further strengthen the relations and strategic ties between India and France. According to officials, during her visit, Colonna will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and will discuss the conflict in Ukraine, the critical situation in Taiwan, and the threat of terror and radicalization from the Af-Pak region. The minister will also discuss the Indo-Pacific, cyber security and civil nuclear power station project being set up at Jaitapur in Maharashtra. The Jaitapur nuclear power project would be the world’s most powerful nuclear plant, said Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet, Consul General of France during an interview. The project is a collaboration between French company Electricité de France (EDF) and Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL).

India, France move UNSC to declare two Pakistanis as global terrorists

France has unveiled a zero particle ship. Due to its name, the ship claims that it has a special filter which eliminates most of the pollutants produced by the ship.

WION Climate Tracker | World's first zero emissions ferry; special filter eliminates fine particles

A special French terrorism court on Monday opened the trial of eight people accused of helping a man who plowed a heavy truck through crowds on 2016 Bastille Day, leaving 86 dead.

France: Nice Bastille Day attack trial begins in Paris terror court

It was in July 2016 that the celebratory streets of Nice were bloodied by a radical Islamist who crushed 86 people while celebrating France's national day. Six years later, the trial is set to begin on Monday as eight suspects, including a woman take the stand. &nbsp;

According to an AP report, the trial will take place in the capital city of Paris as French law mandates that terrorism-related trials be held in the capital.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fatf-lauds-france-for-its-sanctions-against-masood-azhar-after-pulwama-terror-attack-479873">FATF lauds France for its sanctions against Masood Azhar after Pulwama terror attack</a>

Moreover, the proceedings of the trial will be broadcast live to the Acropolis Convention Center in Nice for the victims' families and the public who cannot attend the courtroom hearing. Additionally, audio of the trial, with a 30-minute delay will also be released online.&nbsp;

The trial is expected to last until mid-December. However, the victims will have to make do with the fact that the perpetrator of the cowardly attack will never be brought to justice.&nbsp;

Mohamed Lahouaiej Bouhlel was&nbsp;the main culprit who drove the 19-tonne truck through the crowd, leaving a gruesome trail of blood and mangled bodies. However, he was gunned down by the French authorities afterwards.&nbsp;

While Bouhlel is considered the mastermind of the terrorist plot, others are being tried in court for being aware of his intentions and providing weapons and logistical support to him.&nbsp;

Three suspects have been charged with association in a terrorist conspiracy while the remaining have been charged with association in a criminal conspiracy and violating arms laws.

Ramzi Kevin Arefa, a repeat offender and Bouhlel's aide faces the maximum prison time. If convicted, Ramzi may receive a maximum penalty of life imprisonment while his other aides are expected to receive jail terms between five to 20 years.&nbsp;

At the time of the incident, the terrorist outfit&nbsp;Islamic State (IS) claimed responsibility for the attack. However, French authorities, after the investigation stated that despite being inspired by the ideas of the terrorist outfit,&nbsp;Bouhlel did not have any direct connection with the jihadi outfit.&nbsp;

According to&nbsp;Bouhlel's family, he was not a religious person but was a regular drug user, who had been in depression for a long time. He was in the middle of a divorce with her wife and had been fired from his job, a month prior to the terrorist incident.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

It was in July 2016 that the celebratory streets of Nice were bloodied by a radical Islamist who crushed 86 people while celebrating France's national day. Six years later, the trial is set to begin on Monday as eight suspects, including a woman take the stand.

It was in July 2016 that the celebratory streets of Nice were bloodied by a radical Islamist who crushed 86 people while celebrating France's national day. Six years later, the trial is set to begin on Monday as eight suspects, including a woman take the stand. According to an AP report, the trial will take place in the capital city of Paris as French law mandates that terrorism-related trials be held in the capital. Read more: FATF lauds France for its sanctions against Masood Azhar after Pulwama terror attack Moreover, the proceedings of the trial will be broadcast live to the Acropolis Convention Center in Nice for the victims' families and the public who cannot attend the courtroom hearing. Additionally, audio of the trial, with a 30-minute delay will also be released online. The trial is expected to last until mid-December. However, the victims will have to make do with the fact that the perpetrator of the cowardly attack will never be brought to justice. Mohamed Lahouaiej Bouhlel was the main culprit who drove the 19-tonne truck through the crowd, leaving a gruesome trail of blood and mangled bodies. However, he was gunned down by the French authorities afterwards. While Bouhlel is considered the mastermind of the terrorist plot, others are being tried in court for being aware of his intentions and providing weapons and logistical support to him. Three suspects have been charged with association in a terrorist conspiracy while the remaining have been charged with association in a criminal conspiracy and violating arms laws. Ramzi Kevin Arefa, a repeat offender and Bouhlel's aide faces the maximum prison time. If convicted, Ramzi may receive a maximum penalty of life imprisonment while his other aides are expected to receive jail terms between five to 20 years. At the time of the incident, the terrorist outfit Islamic State (IS) claimed responsibility for the attack. However, French authorities, after the investigation stated that despite being inspired by the ideas of the terrorist outfit, Bouhlel did not have any direct connection with the jihadi outfit. According to Bouhlel's family, he was not a religious person but was a regular drug user, who had been in depression for a long time. He was in the middle of a divorce with her wife and had been fired from his job, a month prior to the terrorist incident. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Trial begins over the Nice Bastille Day terror attack which killed 86 people

France has accused Moscow of using energy supplies as a weapon of war. Allegation comes as Russia's Gazprom reduced deliveries to one of France's main utilities.

Europe energy crisis: Russia reduces gas supplies to France

France top administrative court has given a go-ahead for an imam to be expelled to Morocco. The iman is accused of hate speech, according to interior minister Gerald Darmanin.

Hassan Iquioussen "will be expelled from the national territory" in "a great victory for the republic," said Darmanin on Twitter. He cited a decision of the Council of State.

The case landed before the highest court after Paris judges blocked the imam's deportation, which the interior ministry ordered in late July over "especially virulent anti-Semitic speech" and sermons calling for women's "submission" to men.

Iquioussen (58) has presence on YouTube and Facebook through which he reaches tens of thousands of subscribers. He currently resides in northern France. He holds a Moroccan citizenship but was born in France.

His lawyers successfully applied to the Paris court for a block on the order, saying it would create "disproportionate harm" to his "private and family life".

An interior ministry lawyer last week told the Council of State, "Iquioussen has for years spread insidious ideas that are nothing less than incitement to hatred, to discrimination and to violence."

But the preacher's lawyer retorted that some of the remarks, including anti-Semitic or misogynistic speech dated back more than 20 years, pointing out that he had never been prosecuted for his public statements.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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France top administrative court has given a go-ahead for an imam to be expelled to Morocco. The iman is accused of hate speech, according to interior minister Gerald Darmanin.

France top administrative court has given a go-ahead for an imam to be expelled to Morocco. The iman is accused of hate speech, according to interior minister Gerald Darmanin. Hassan Iquioussen "will be expelled from the national territory" in "a great victory for the republic," said Darmanin on Twitter. He cited a decision of the Council of State. The case landed before the highest court after Paris judges blocked the imam's deportation, which the interior ministry ordered in late July over "especially virulent anti-Semitic speech" and sermons calling for women's "submission" to men. Iquioussen (58) has presence on YouTube and Facebook through which he reaches tens of thousands of subscribers. He currently resides in northern France. He holds a Moroccan citizenship but was born in France. His lawyers successfully applied to the Paris court for a block on the order, saying it would create "disproportionate harm" to his "private and family life". An interior ministry lawyer last week told the Council of State, "Iquioussen has for years spread insidious ideas that are nothing less than incitement to hatred, to discrimination and to violence." But the preacher's lawyer retorted that some of the remarks, including anti-Semitic or misogynistic speech dated back more than 20 years, pointing out that he had never been prosecuted for his public statements. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Imam to be expelled from France for 'hate speech'

An unexpected bonanza for French tax officials has resulted from the discovery of thousands of unregistered private swimming pools in France. There were more than 20,000 hidden pools found as a result of an artificial intelligence (AI) project.

French media has reported&nbsp;that tax authorities have earned about $ 9.9&nbsp;million.&nbsp;Pools must be declared under French law and might result in increased property taxes because they increase property value, as reported by the BBC.&nbsp;

During a trial in October 2021, the software—which was created by Google and the French consulting firm Capgemini—found the pools on aerial photographs of nine <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-pm-warns-of-energy-rationing-in-the-winter-511241">French</a> districts.

The study was conducted in the regions of the Alpes-Maritimes, Var, Bouches-du-Rhône, Ardèche, Rhône, Haute-Savoie, Vendée, Maine-et-Loire, and Morbihan; however, tax officials claim it may now be implemented nationally.

According to data portal Statista, there were more than 3.2 million private swimming pools in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-air-france-pilots-suspended-after-mid-flight-fight-in-cockpit-510985">France</a> in 2020, and business was flourishing even before the Covid epidemic.

However, as more workers choose to work from home, the number of pools installed increased.

A 30 sq m (322 sq ft) average pool costs €200 ($200; £170) in taxes annually, according to the Le Parisien newspaper.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/emmanuel-macron-abandons-walkout-in-algeria-crowd-accuses-him-of-humiliating-france-511229">Emmanuel Macron abandons walkout in Algeria, crowd accuses him of humiliating France</a>

According to the tax authorities, the programme may potentially be used to identify gazebos, patios, and unreported home additions that affect property taxes.

Le Parisien quoted deputy director general of public finances Antoine Magnant as saying: "We are specifically focusing on housing expansions like verandas.

But we need to make sure the algorithms can identify large-footprint buildings and not just dog kennels or kiddie playhouses, he continued.

The crackdown follows Julien Bayou of the Europe-Ecology Greens party in France saying that he had not ruled out a ban on new private pools.

Speaking to BFMTV, he said that France needs a "different relationship to water" and that the ban would be a "last resort".

"The challenge is not to ban swimming pools, it is to guarantee our vital water needs," he said.

According to the national weather service Meteo-France, July was the driest month in France since March 1961 with just 9.7mm (0.38 inches) of rain.

Across order to conserve water, irrigation has been prohibited in parts of France's north-west and south-east.

Also WATCH |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker | Record heat wave in China; drought shrinks water levels across the country

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An unexpected bonanza for French tax officials has resulted from the discovery of thousands of unregistered private swimming pools in France. There were more than 20,000 hidden pools found as a result of an artificial intelligence (AI) project.

An unexpected bonanza for French tax officials has resulted from the discovery of thousands of unregistered private swimming pools in France. There were more than 20,000 hidden pools found as a result of an artificial intelligence (AI) project. French media has reported that tax authorities have earned about $ 9.9 million. Pools must be declared under French law and might result in increased property taxes because they increase property value, as reported by the BBC. During a trial in October 2021, the software—which was created by Google and the French consulting firm Capgemini—found the pools on aerial photographs of nine French districts. The study was conducted in the regions of the Alpes-Maritimes, Var, Bouches-du-Rhône, Ardèche, Rhône, Haute-Savoie, Vendée, Maine-et-Loire, and Morbihan; however, tax officials claim it may now be implemented nationally. According to data portal Statista, there were more than 3.2 million private swimming pools in France in 2020, and business was flourishing even before the Covid epidemic. However, as more workers choose to work from home, the number of pools installed increased. A 30 sq m (322 sq ft) average pool costs €200 ($200; £170) in taxes annually, according to the Le Parisien newspaper. Also read | Emmanuel Macron abandons walkout in Algeria, crowd accuses him of humiliating France According to the tax authorities, the programme may potentially be used to identify gazebos, patios, and unreported home additions that affect property taxes. Le Parisien quoted deputy director general of public finances Antoine Magnant as saying: "We are specifically focusing on housing expansions like verandas. But we need to make sure the algorithms can identify large-footprint buildings and not just dog kennels or kiddie playhouses, he continued. The crackdown follows Julien Bayou of the Europe-Ecology Greens party in France saying that he had not ruled out a ban on new private pools. Speaking to BFMTV, he said that France needs a "different relationship to water" and that the ban would be a "last resort". "The challenge is not to ban swimming pools, it is to guarantee our vital water needs," he said. According to the national weather service Meteo-France, July was the driest month in France since March 1961 with just 9.7mm (0.38 inches) of rain. Across order to conserve water, irrigation has been prohibited in parts of France's north-west and south-east. Also WATCH | WION Climate Tracker | Record heat wave in China; drought shrinks water levels across the country

AI detects undeclared pools in France

A day after French PM Elisabeth Borne&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-pm-warns-of-energy-rationing-in-the-winter-511241">warned&nbsp;</a>of energy rationing in the winter,&nbsp;Gazprom has dropped another bomb. Reportedly, the Russian state-owned gas company on Tuesday informed that gas deliveries to Engie, France's biggest supplier of gas to households and businesses&nbsp;will be reduced, starting today due to a dispute over contracts.&nbsp;

"There will be&nbsp;a reduction in gas deliveries, starting today, due to a disagreement between the parties on the application of some contracts." Engie informed about Gazprom's notice.&nbsp;

The French company further added that it had put measures in place to brave the reduction in supplies.

"Engie had already secured the volumes necessary to meet its commitments towards its customers and its own requirements, and put in place several measures to significantly reduce any direct financial and physical impacts that could result from an interruption to gas supplies by Gazprom." stated the company in a statement.&nbsp;

However, neither Gazprom nor Engie informed about the nature of the dispute with the former not releasing any statement.&nbsp;

In the aftermath of the announcement, French energy minister Agnès Pannier-Runacher stated that the fresh supply cuts should egg France to fully end its dependence on French supplies.&nbsp;

“Russia is using gas like a war weapon.&nbsp;We must prepare for the worst, a total interruption of deliveries.” said&nbsp;Runacher.

Nord Stream 1 pipeline will close from tomorrow&nbsp;

It is pertinent to note that Gazprom's reduction in the supply comes in the backdrop of the company announcing earlier this month that the Nord Stream 1 gas pipeline will remain shut down for three days for 'routine maintenance', starting tomorrow i.e August 31.

Read more:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gazproms-halt-of-nord-stream-1-pipeline-plunges-europe-into-a-gas-crisis-509359">&nbsp;Gazprom's halt of Nord Stream 1 pipeline plunges Europe into a gas crisis</a>

The pipeline which runs from Russia to Germany under the Baltic Sea is the lifeline of the European countries. Despite being against Russia since its invasion of Ukraine, the European countries have remained toothless against Moscow which has used its position of dominance to circumvent the sanctions.&nbsp;

While most European nations are facing soaring prices, very few have capped the prices. Of the major countries, it is France that has put a four per cent cap on gas prices up until the end of the year.

Read more:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-to-limit-soaring-electricity-rates-next-year-cap-on-prices-to-continue-till-the-end-of-year-510752">&nbsp;France to 'limit' soaring electricity rates next year; cap on prices to continue till the end of year</a>

Moreover, France is only dependent on Russia for 17 per cent of its energy supply. The country is in talks with Algeria&nbsp;to increase gas imports&nbsp;while attempting to fill reserves for the winter which have reportedly reached the 90 per cent mark, according to government data.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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A day after French PM Elisabeth Borne warned of energy rationing in the winter, Gazprom has dropped another bomb. Reportedly, the Russian state-owned gas company on Tuesday informed that gas deliveries to Engie, France's biggest supplier of gas to households and businesses will be reduced, starting today due to a dispute over contracts.

A day after French PM Elisabeth Borne warned of energy rationing in the winter, Gazprom has dropped another bomb. Reportedly, the Russian state-owned gas company on Tuesday informed that gas deliveries to Engie, France's biggest supplier of gas to households and businesses will be reduced, starting today due to a dispute over contracts. "There will be a reduction in gas deliveries, starting today, due to a disagreement between the parties on the application of some contracts." Engie informed about Gazprom's notice. The French company further added that it had put measures in place to brave the reduction in supplies. "Engie had already secured the volumes necessary to meet its commitments towards its customers and its own requirements, and put in place several measures to significantly reduce any direct financial and physical impacts that could result from an interruption to gas supplies by Gazprom." stated the company in a statement. However, neither Gazprom nor Engie informed about the nature of the dispute with the former not releasing any statement. In the aftermath of the announcement, French energy minister Agnès Pannier-Runacher stated that the fresh supply cuts should egg France to fully end its dependence on French supplies. “Russia is using gas like a war weapon. We must prepare for the worst, a total interruption of deliveries.” said Runacher. Nord Stream 1 pipeline will close from tomorrow It is pertinent to note that Gazprom's reduction in the supply comes in the backdrop of the company announcing earlier this month that the Nord Stream 1 gas pipeline will remain shut down for three days for 'routine maintenance', starting tomorrow i.e August 31. Read more: Gazprom's halt of Nord Stream 1 pipeline plunges Europe into a gas crisis The pipeline which runs from Russia to Germany under the Baltic Sea is the lifeline of the European countries. Despite being against Russia since its invasion of Ukraine, the European countries have remained toothless against Moscow which has used its position of dominance to circumvent the sanctions. While most European nations are facing soaring prices, very few have capped the prices. Of the major countries, it is France that has put a four per cent cap on gas prices up until the end of the year. Read more: France to 'limit' soaring electricity rates next year; cap on prices to continue till the end of year Moreover, France is only dependent on Russia for 17 per cent of its energy supply. The country is in talks with Algeria to increase gas imports while attempting to fill reserves for the winter which have reportedly reached the 90 per cent mark, according to government data. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Gazprom to reduce gas deliveries to Engie, France's biggest gas supplier

Europe is reeling under a major energy crisis in the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war. Now, Belgian Energy Minister Tinne Van der Straeten has shot off a warning that the continent faces terrible winters for the next 5-10 years if no cap is put on the gas prices.

Europe is reeling under a major energy crisis in the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war. Now, Belgian Energy Minister Tinne Van der Straeten has shot off a warning that the continent faces terrible winters for the next 5-10 years if no cap is put on the gas prices. “The next 5 to 10 winters will be terrible if nothing is done, We must act at the source, at [the] European level, and work on freezing gas prices,” tweeted Van der Straeten. Les 5 à 10 prochains hivers seront terribles si on ne fait rien. Il faut agir à la source, au niveau européen et travailler sur un blocage des prix pour le gaz. On pourrait ainsi réduire la facture énergétique de 770 euros. — Tinne Van der Straeten (@TinneVdS) August 28, 2022 × The minister further stated that if the gas prices are capped, it could help reduce energy bills by $771 per year, per family. "There is an urgent need to introduce a European price cap. This can reduce the energy bill by 770 euros per year per family. At the EU level, the price cap has the greatest impact, but we can no longer rule out price blocks at the Belgian level either," The Belgian minister also asserted that her country had put the proposal in front of the EU with Germany backing it as well. “The European energy market is failing and urgently needs reform. This is no longer tenable for many families and companies. Electricity is produced as cheaply as last year but sold at record prices. By reforming, we are tackling exuberant excess profits.” added Van der Straeten. Read more: Electricity prices hit record highs in Europe, affect supply chains, spark fears of fertiliser shortage What is the crisis? As reported extensively by WION, the 27-nation bloc is majorly dependent on Russian energy for survival. However, ever since Moscow invaded Kyiv and the EU imposed sanctions, Putin has leveraged his position to turn the faucet off the 40 per cent gas quota of Europe. While most European nations are facing soaring prices, very few have capped the prices. Of the major countries, it is France that has put a four per cent cap on gas prices up until the end of the year. Read more: France to 'limit' soaring electricity rates next year; cap on prices to continue till the end of year Moreover, last week, French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire remarked that the hike in electricity prices in 2023 will also be limited. "Increases that the President and Prime Minister have spoken about will be limited increases. The four per cent cap will be maintained to the end of the year." said Bruno Le Maire. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Terrible winters await Europe for the next 5-10 years, warns Belgian Energy Minister

French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne on Monday (August 29) warned of energy rationing in the winter. She urged company bosses to take steps to reduce energy consumption.

"If we act collectively then we can overcome the risk of shortages, but unless everyone takes part and if all the bad-case scenarios come together then we could be forced to impose reductions on consumers," she told the Medef business group.&nbsp;

"If we end up with rationing, companies will be the most affected and unfortunately we need to be prepared for it," she continued.&nbsp;

The energy trouble for Europe has grown due to Ukraine war and Russia's subsequent leveraging of its position as major energy supplier to Europe.

The French PM said the governemnt was already making contingency plans. These plans, she said, included 'quota trading system'. This system would enable companies to sell power quotas.

The government was also preparing measures to support companies.

"Every company needs to mobilise and act. I call on everyone to establish their own energy-saving plans in September," she said, while stressing that the crisis caused by record-high energy prices would help the transition away from fossil fuels.

"The months ahead are just a step in the bigger transition that we need to make," she said.&nbsp;

France is more sheltered than many European countries from the surge in gas prices caused by Russia's decision to reduce its exports to Europe after its invasion of Ukraine in February.

(With inputs from agencies)

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French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne on Monday (August 29) warned of energy rationing in the winter. She urged company bosses to take steps to reduce energy consumption.

French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne on Monday (August 29) warned of energy rationing in the winter. She urged company bosses to take steps to reduce energy consumption. "If we act collectively then we can overcome the risk of shortages, but unless everyone takes part and if all the bad-case scenarios come together then we could be forced to impose reductions on consumers," she told the Medef business group. "If we end up with rationing, companies will be the most affected and unfortunately we need to be prepared for it," she continued. The energy trouble for Europe has grown due to Ukraine war and Russia's subsequent leveraging of its position as major energy supplier to Europe. The French PM said the governemnt was already making contingency plans. These plans, she said, included 'quota trading system'. This system would enable companies to sell power quotas. The government was also preparing measures to support companies. "Every company needs to mobilise and act. I call on everyone to establish their own energy-saving plans in September," she said, while stressing that the crisis caused by record-high energy prices would help the transition away from fossil fuels. "The months ahead are just a step in the bigger transition that we need to make," she said. France is more sheltered than many European countries from the surge in gas prices caused by Russia's decision to reduce its exports to Europe after its invasion of Ukraine in February. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

French PM warns of energy 'rationing' in the winter

French footballer Paul Pogba reportedly informed the police that his brother Matheus Pogba is part of a multi-million euro blackmail attempt. The Juventus star had claimed that an organised gang targeted him for extortion and also threatened him.&nbsp;

In the latest development, a source close to the case told the news agency AFP on Sunday (August 28) that the French police have opened an investigation into claims by Pogba.&nbsp;

Pogba's brother Mathias posted an unsettling video on social media in four languages—French, Italian, English and Spanish. In the video, he said that he had "explosive" information and promised "great revelations" about the 2018 World Cup winner.&nbsp;

Mathias also mentioned he would release unknown facts about Pogba's Frech teammate Kylian Mbappe.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paul-pogbas-brother-vows-to-make-explosive-revelations-about-juventus-star-and-mbappe-in-bizarre-video-510903">Paul Pogba's brother vows to make 'explosive' revelations about Juventus star and Mbappe in bizarre video</a>&nbsp;

The star midfielder issued a statement signed by his lawyers, his mother Yeo Moriba and current agent Rafaela Pimenta stating that the videos published on Saturday night "are unfortunately no surprise".&nbsp;

The statement read: "They are in addition to threats and extortion attempts by an organised gang against Paul Pogba. The competent bodies in Italy and France were informed a month ago and there will be no further comments in relation to the ongoing investigation."&nbsp;

What did Mathias say?&nbsp;

Mathias Pogba promised "great revelations about (his) brother Paul Pogba and his agent Rafaela Pimenta". Notably, Rafaela took over as head of the company of former agent Mino Raiola who died in April.&nbsp;

The 32-year-old said the "whole world, as well as my brother's fans, and even more so the French team and Juventus, my brother's team-mates and his sponsors deserve to know certain things".&nbsp;

Mathias Pogba, who is also a professional footballer, also said that people needed to decide whether his brother "deserves his place in the French team and the honour of playing in the World Cup. If he deserves to be a starter at Juventus."&nbsp;

Mathias didn't mention any source or add substance to his claims but concluded by stating that "all this is likely to be explosive.&nbsp;

WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-cristiano-ronaldo-hilariously-pranks-rio-ferdinand-ahead-of-southampton-clash-510906">Cristiano Ronaldo hilariously pranks Rio Ferdinand ahead of Southampton clash</a>&nbsp;

Sources say...

AFP reported that according to two sources close to the Pogba family, large sums of money are being demanded from Paul Pogba.&nbsp;

He is asked to pay the amount in order to avoid the dissemination of the allegedly compromising videos.&nbsp;

France Info reported that Paul Pogba told investigators he had been threatened by "childhood friends and two hooded men armed with assault rifles". They are demanding 13 million euros from him for "services provided".&nbsp;

Mathias' reaction

Mathias Pogba, late Sunday, reacted to all the developments related to the news. "Paul, you really wanted to shut me up and lie and send me to prison," wrote Mathias.&nbsp;

"You left me in the hole, while running away and you want to play the innocent. When all is said people will see that there is no bigger coward, bigger traitor and bigger hypocrite than you on this earth," he added.&nbsp;

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French footballer Paul Pogba reportedly informed the police that his brother Matheus Pogba is part of a multi-million euro blackmail attempt. The Juventus star had claimed that an organised gang targeted him for extortion and also threatened him.

French footballer Paul Pogba reportedly informed the police that his brother Matheus Pogba is part of a multi-million euro blackmail attempt. The Juventus star had claimed that an organised gang targeted him for extortion and also threatened him. In the latest development, a source close to the case told the news agency AFP on Sunday (August 28) that the French police have opened an investigation into claims by Pogba. Pogba's brother Mathias posted an unsettling video on social media in four languages—French, Italian, English and Spanish. In the video, he said that he had "explosive" information and promised "great revelations" about the 2018 World Cup winner. Mathias also mentioned he would release unknown facts about Pogba's Frech teammate Kylian Mbappe. ALSO READ | Paul Pogba's brother vows to make 'explosive' revelations about Juventus star and Mbappe in bizarre video The star midfielder issued a statement signed by his lawyers, his mother Yeo Moriba and current agent Rafaela Pimenta stating that the videos published on Saturday night "are unfortunately no surprise". The statement read: "They are in addition to threats and extortion attempts by an organised gang against Paul Pogba. The competent bodies in Italy and France were informed a month ago and there will be no further comments in relation to the ongoing investigation." What did Mathias say? Mathias Pogba promised "great revelations about (his) brother Paul Pogba and his agent Rafaela Pimenta". Notably, Rafaela took over as head of the company of former agent Mino Raiola who died in April. The 32-year-old said the "whole world, as well as my brother's fans, and even more so the French team and Juventus, my brother's team-mates and his sponsors deserve to know certain things". Mathias Pogba, who is also a professional footballer, also said that people needed to decide whether his brother "deserves his place in the French team and the honour of playing in the World Cup. If he deserves to be a starter at Juventus." Mathias didn't mention any source or add substance to his claims but concluded by stating that "all this is likely to be explosive. WATCH | Cristiano Ronaldo hilariously pranks Rio Ferdinand ahead of Southampton clash Sources say... AFP reported that according to two sources close to the Pogba family, large sums of money are being demanded from Paul Pogba. He is asked to pay the amount in order to avoid the dissemination of the allegedly compromising videos. France Info reported that Paul Pogba told investigators he had been threatened by "childhood friends and two hooded men armed with assault rifles". They are demanding 13 million euros from him for "services provided". Mathias' reaction Mathias Pogba, late Sunday, reacted to all the developments related to the news. "Paul, you really wanted to shut me up and lie and send me to prison," wrote Mathias. "You left me in the hole, while running away and you want to play the innocent. When all is said people will see that there is no bigger coward, bigger traitor and bigger hypocrite than you on this earth," he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French police open probe after Paul Pogba claims his brother is part of a multi-million-euro blackmail attempt

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