Labour strife and staffing shortages have&nbsp;European&nbsp;airports clamouring to find more workers, minimise cancelled flights and reduce headaches for travellers during the busy summer season.

Workers at France's Charles De Gaulle&nbsp;airport&nbsp;are striking on Thursday for more pay, with a quarter of flights cancelled. In Italy, crews from budget carriers Ryanair, easyJet and Volotea walked off the job on Wednesday.

On Wednesday evening, German flag carrier Lufthansa and its subsidiary Eurowings said they were scrapping over 1,000 flights in July, or 5 per cent&nbsp;of their planned weekend capacity, due to staff shortages amid the busy vacation period.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/double-standards-haunt-us-and-europe-in-nato-dispute-with-turkey-486083">Double standards haunt US and Europe in NATO dispute with Turkey</a>

Ryanair cabin crew could strike in Europe this summer, after talks ended with two Spanish unions, according to a statement by unions SITCPLA and USO.

Airport&nbsp;managers are struggling to quickly recruit and process new hires, as a rebound in air travel from a pandemic-induced slump leads to cancelled flights and hours-long lines.

Airlines, battered by slumping travel during the pandemic, have been counting on a strong summer, as fares rise to offset higher fuel costs. Some countries are also banking on tourism to revive hard-hit economies.

The head of airline trade group International Air Transport Association (IATA) has said heavy congestion also occurred before the pandemic and is now limited to certain&nbsp;airports, aggravated by delays to get security badges required for newly-hired staff.

In North America, Canada's busiest&nbsp;airport&nbsp;is allowing some staff who have not yet obtained their badges to work temporarily under supervision by vetted employees, said Tori Gass, a spokeswoman for the Greater Toronto&nbsp;Airports Authority.

Watch |&nbsp;Decoding the Pros &amp; Cons of EU's 'Universal Charger' move

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The temporary pass was recently introduced at Toronto Pearson International&nbsp;Airport&nbsp;in response to the large volume of appointments for restricted area identity cards (RAIC), Gass said. It takes roughly 45 days to get the cards.

Transport Canada said it received 13,722 applications nationally for clearances required for employees like&nbsp;airport&nbsp;ramp agents or baggage handlers in the first quarter of 2022, up from 5,968 requests during the same period in 2021.

Pearson is wrestling with planes stuck at gates and hours-long security lines due to staffing shortages.

Canadian Transport Minister Omar Alghabra on Wednesday said he is working with partners to bring in more screening officers.

"We're acting", Alghabra told reporters.

In Europe, Dublin and Heathrow&nbsp;airports are recruiting screeners, while Schipol&nbsp;Airport&nbsp;in Amsterdam is raising wages for staff.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-lawmakers-pass-ban-on-new-petrol-diesel-cars-by-2035-486537">European Union lawmakers pass ban on new petrol, diesel cars by 2035</a>

Spain on Tuesday announced the hiring of 500 additional police to staff passport controls at busy&nbsp;airports and tourist destinations including Madrid.

In the United States,&nbsp;airports are generally avoiding such heavy congestion. Still, a staffing crunch has forced airlines to cancel flights and trim summer schedules.

Alaska Air Group Inc last month was forced to cancel 4 per cent&nbsp;of its flights because of staffing woes. Delta Air Lines, which cancelled about 700 flights over the four-day Memorial Day holiday, plans to cut flights through August.

Spain's interior minister attributed reports of congestion at border controls to multiple flights arriving at the same time. But CEHAT, the country's largest business group for hotels and lodging, said the delays could have been prevented since they are related to the end of free travel of British citizens to Spain due to Brexit.

"This situation should not have caught us off guard", CEHAT president Jorge Marichal said in a statement on Wednesday.

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Labour strife and staffing shortages have European airports clamouring to find more workers, minimise cancelled flights and reduce headaches for travellers during the busy summer season.

Labour strife and staffing shortages have European airports clamouring to find more workers, minimise cancelled flights and reduce headaches for travellers during the busy summer season. Workers at France's Charles De Gaulle airport are striking on Thursday for more pay, with a quarter of flights cancelled. In Italy, crews from budget carriers Ryanair, easyJet and Volotea walked off the job on Wednesday. On Wednesday evening, German flag carrier Lufthansa and its subsidiary Eurowings said they were scrapping over 1,000 flights in July, or 5 per cent of their planned weekend capacity, due to staff shortages amid the busy vacation period. Also read | Double standards haunt US and Europe in NATO dispute with Turkey Ryanair cabin crew could strike in Europe this summer, after talks ended with two Spanish unions, according to a statement by unions SITCPLA and USO. Airport managers are struggling to quickly recruit and process new hires, as a rebound in air travel from a pandemic-induced slump leads to cancelled flights and hours-long lines. Airlines, battered by slumping travel during the pandemic, have been counting on a strong summer, as fares rise to offset higher fuel costs. Some countries are also banking on tourism to revive hard-hit economies. The head of airline trade group International Air Transport Association (IATA) has said heavy congestion also occurred before the pandemic and is now limited to certain airports, aggravated by delays to get security badges required for newly-hired staff. In North America, Canada's busiest airport is allowing some staff who have not yet obtained their badges to work temporarily under supervision by vetted employees, said Tori Gass, a spokeswoman for the Greater Toronto Airports Authority. Watch | Decoding the Pros & Cons of EU's 'Universal Charger' move The temporary pass was recently introduced at Toronto Pearson International Airport in response to the large volume of appointments for restricted area identity cards (RAIC), Gass said. It takes roughly 45 days to get the cards. Transport Canada said it received 13,722 applications nationally for clearances required for employees like airport ramp agents or baggage handlers in the first quarter of 2022, up from 5,968 requests during the same period in 2021. Pearson is wrestling with planes stuck at gates and hours-long security lines due to staffing shortages. Canadian Transport Minister Omar Alghabra on Wednesday said he is working with partners to bring in more screening officers. "We're acting", Alghabra told reporters. In Europe, Dublin and Heathrow airports are recruiting screeners, while Schipol Airport in Amsterdam is raising wages for staff. Also read | European Union lawmakers pass ban on new petrol, diesel cars by 2035 Spain on Tuesday announced the hiring of 500 additional police to staff passport controls at busy airports and tourist destinations including Madrid. In the United States, airports are generally avoiding such heavy congestion. Still, a staffing crunch has forced airlines to cancel flights and trim summer schedules. Alaska Air Group Inc last month was forced to cancel 4 per cent of its flights because of staffing woes. Delta Air Lines, which cancelled about 700 flights over the four-day Memorial Day holiday, plans to cut flights through August. Spain's interior minister attributed reports of congestion at border controls to multiple flights arriving at the same time. But CEHAT, the country's largest business group for hotels and lodging, said the delays could have been prevented since they are related to the end of free travel of British citizens to Spain due to Brexit. "This situation should not have caught us off guard", CEHAT president Jorge Marichal said in a statement on Wednesday. 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.

European airport labour strife, staff shortages disrupt summer travel

Negotiators in the European Union agreed late on Tuesday (June 7) for the bloc’s first ever women quota in corporate boards, aiming to enhance gender equality in the 450 million strong bloc, the lawmakers said, reported by Reuters.&nbsp;

The rule requires all listed firms in 27 European Union member nations to have at least 40 per cent of women in non-executive seats, 33 per cent in executive and non-executive jobs by mid of 2026.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/double-standards-haunt-us-and-europe-in-nato-dispute-with-turkey-486083">Double standards haunt US and Europe in NATO dispute with Turkey</a>

The proposal had been dormant for a decade, but it regained steam this year with new backing from France and Germany.&nbsp;

However, there is no penalty for missing the target, companies that do meet it will be praised by the public. After the final round of the negotiators and EU member states, the parliament’s liberal Renew faction stated that this would raise pressure to comply.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: EU to introduce 'universal charger' by 2024

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Gender representation for corporate board varies widely from nation to nation, with women holding only 9 per cent non-executive seats in Estonia and over 45 per cent in France. The latter has set its own target of 40 per cent and is the only nation to achieve it, reported by Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/post-pandemic-rebound-in-demand-leads-to-aviation-chaos-in-europe-485512">Post-pandemic rebound in demand leads to aviation chaos in Europe</a>

As per the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE), a European Union agency, that stated that these enforceable quotas have been proven to be more effective in improving the board balance that nations that enacted weaker measures or none at all.&nbsp;

As per the report, France, Germany and Italy set national goals in the year 2010, the female representation on boards in the EU increased. However, the progress has recently declined, with women accounting for less than a third of the non-executive board members in the union’s trading companies.&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)

Negotiators in the European Union agreed late on Tuesday (June 7) for the bloc’s first ever women quota in corporate boards, aiming to enhance gender equality in the 450 million strong bloc, the lawmakers said, reported by Reuters.

Negotiators in the European Union agreed late on Tuesday (June 7) for the bloc’s first ever women quota in corporate boards, aiming to enhance gender equality in the 450 million strong bloc, the lawmakers said, reported by Reuters. The rule requires all listed firms in 27 European Union member nations to have at least 40 per cent of women in non-executive seats, 33 per cent in executive and non-executive jobs by mid of 2026. Also read | Double standards haunt US and Europe in NATO dispute with Turkey The proposal had been dormant for a decade, but it regained steam this year with new backing from France and Germany. However, there is no penalty for missing the target, companies that do meet it will be praised by the public. After the final round of the negotiators and EU member states, the parliament’s liberal Renew faction stated that this would raise pressure to comply. Watch | Gravitas: EU to introduce 'universal charger' by 2024 Gender representation for corporate board varies widely from nation to nation, with women holding only 9 per cent non-executive seats in Estonia and over 45 per cent in France. The latter has set its own target of 40 per cent and is the only nation to achieve it, reported by Reuters. Also read | Post-pandemic rebound in demand leads to aviation chaos in Europe As per the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE), a European Union agency, that stated that these enforceable quotas have been proven to be more effective in improving the board balance that nations that enacted weaker measures or none at all. As per the report, France, Germany and Italy set national goals in the year 2010, the female representation on boards in the EU increased. However, the progress has recently declined, with women accounting for less than a third of the non-executive board members in the union’s trading companies. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

European Union agrees for 40% women quotas on corporate boards to enhance gender equality

France heads to the polls on June 12 and 19 for parliamentary elections. &nbsp;Support for President Emmanuel Macron's Ensemble (Together) alliance is falling, raising questions over whether he will win an absolute majority in parliament.

Macron's 'Ensemble' bloc is seen winning 28% of votes in the first round, versus 27.5% for the left-wing 'Nupes' bloc.

It added that Macron's centrist camp was expected to win between 275 and 315 seats in the French parliament, where an absolute majority requires 289 seats. Macron needs a majority to help implement pro-business reforms.

Why winning the Presidential election is not enough?

Macron won a second mandate in April as France's centrist, pro-European president. But that is not enough. He also needs to win a majority in the lower house of parliament this month to maintain full control over his reform agenda.&nbsp;

What do the polls forecast?

Voter surveys had until recently shown Macron's party and its allies - collectively known as Ensemble - winning an absolutely majority in the 577 seat parliament. But that outcome has become less certain in recent days.&nbsp;

Momentum is on the side of a left-wing coalition led by hard-left veteran Jean-Luc Melenchon. Melenchon is unlikely to win the 289 seats required for an absolute majority but may win enough to deprive Macron of the same.&nbsp;

What if Macron falls short of the majority?

Falling short of an absolute majority would be a big setback for Macron. It would force him to broaden his alliance. The broader the alliance the more complicated deal-making, and dictating policy decisions become.

The left-wing coalition led by hard-left veteran Jean-Luc Melenchon is seen second in polls, but the conservative Les Republicains could end up being kingmakers if Macron's Ensemble alliance falls short of an absolute majority.

A minority cabinet or coalition government would be an unusual scenario for modern-day France. The Fifth Republic was designed to avoid unwieldy coalitions.&nbsp;

If an opposition grouping were to surprise and win a majority, Macron would have to name a prime minister from the winning camp, ushering in a period of so-called cohabitation.He would retain the lead on foreign policy but leave responsibility for most day-to-day policy matters to the government. 
&nbsp;

How does the polling take place?

Voting takes place between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. (0600-1800 GMT) on June 12. In constituencies where no candidate gets 50% of votes in the first round, a run-off vote is held on June 19, with every candidate who won the support of at least 12.5% of registered voters eligible to advance.&nbsp;

Polling for legislative elections is trickier than the presidential election as different dynamics on the ground make it harder to predict who will win nationwide.

What are the parties fighting for?

Macron's La Republique en Marche party single-handedly won 314 seats in the 2017 legislative elections but gradually lost lawmakers to stand at just under 270 now. It maintained control over parliament thanks to its allies, who have around 80 lawmakers.&nbsp;

France's two mainstream centre-left and centre-right parties dominated the French political landscape until Macron's election in 2017. Five years on both are still fighting for political relevance and the tectonic plates have shifted.

[with inputs from agencies]

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France heads to the polls on June 12 and 19 for parliamentary elections. Support for President Emmanuel Macron's Ensemble (Together) alliance is falling, raising questions over whether he will win an absolute majority in parliament.

France heads to the polls on June 12 and 19 for parliamentary elections. Support for President Emmanuel Macron's Ensemble (Together) alliance is falling, raising questions over whether he will win an absolute majority in parliament. Macron's 'Ensemble' bloc is seen winning 28% of votes in the first round, versus 27.5% for the left-wing 'Nupes' bloc. It added that Macron's centrist camp was expected to win between 275 and 315 seats in the French parliament, where an absolute majority requires 289 seats. Macron needs a majority to help implement pro-business reforms. Why winning the Presidential election is not enough? Macron won a second mandate in April as France's centrist, pro-European president. But that is not enough. He also needs to win a majority in the lower house of parliament this month to maintain full control over his reform agenda. What do the polls forecast? Voter surveys had until recently shown Macron's party and its allies - collectively known as Ensemble - winning an absolutely majority in the 577 seat parliament. But that outcome has become less certain in recent days. Momentum is on the side of a left-wing coalition led by hard-left veteran Jean-Luc Melenchon. Melenchon is unlikely to win the 289 seats required for an absolute majority but may win enough to deprive Macron of the same. What if Macron falls short of the majority? Falling short of an absolute majority would be a big setback for Macron. It would force him to broaden his alliance. The broader the alliance the more complicated deal-making, and dictating policy decisions become. The left-wing coalition led by hard-left veteran Jean-Luc Melenchon is seen second in polls, but the conservative Les Republicains could end up being kingmakers if Macron's Ensemble alliance falls short of an absolute majority. A minority cabinet or coalition government would be an unusual scenario for modern-day France. The Fifth Republic was designed to avoid unwieldy coalitions. If an opposition grouping were to surprise and win a majority, Macron would have to name a prime minister from the winning camp, ushering in a period of so-called cohabitation.He would retain the lead on foreign policy but leave responsibility for most day-to-day policy matters to the government. How does the polling take place? Voting takes place between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. (0600-1800 GMT) on June 12. In constituencies where no candidate gets 50% of votes in the first round, a run-off vote is held on June 19, with every candidate who won the support of at least 12.5% of registered voters eligible to advance. Polling for legislative elections is trickier than the presidential election as different dynamics on the ground make it harder to predict who will win nationwide. What are the parties fighting for? Macron's La Republique en Marche party single-handedly won 314 seats in the 2017 legislative elections but gradually lost lawmakers to stand at just under 270 now. It maintained control over parliament thanks to its allies, who have around 80 lawmakers. France's two mainstream centre-left and centre-right parties dominated the French political landscape until Macron's election in 2017. Five years on both are still fighting for political relevance and the tectonic plates have shifted. [with inputs from agencies] 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.

Explainer: Why does France need another election? Can it dethrone Macron?

France will head to the polls on June 12th and June 19th for parliamentary elections. Re-elected president Emmanuel Macron will attempt to win a ruling majority in parliament for his second term in office.

French Parliamentary polls: Will Emmanuel Macron camp win absolute majority?

Paris St Germain forward Kylian Mbappe is the most valuable soccer player in the world, according to Swiss research group CIES Football Observatory, followed by Real Madrid`s Vinicius Jr and new Manchester City recruit Erling Haaland.

Mbappe, who turned down Real and signed a new three-year deal at PSG last month, topped the list&nbsp;with an estimated transfer value of 205.6 million euros ($219.5 million), beating Vinicius (185.3 million euros) and Haaland (152.6 million euros). Mbappe`s PSG teammate Neymar holds the current transfer record. The French champions paid Barcelona 222 million euros for his signature in 2017.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-fifa-president-sepp-blatter-and-ex-uefa-president-michel-platini-face-swiss-corruption-trail-485880">Former FIFA President Sepp Blatter and ex-UEFA President Michel Platini face Swiss corruption trail</a>

The top five was rounded off by Barca youngster Pedri (135.1 million euros) and Borussia Dortmund`s English midfielder Jude Bellingham (133.7 million euros). The CIES Football Observatory uses such indicators as player age, performance, career progression and contract duration to arrive at a transfer value.

The latest list was dominated by Premier League players, with 41 representatives in the top 100. 
City`s Ruben Dias (109.6 million euros) had the highest transfer value for a defender while PSG`s Gianluigi Donnarumma (73.7 million euros) led among goalkeepers. City playmaker Kevin De Bruyne, 30, was the oldest player on the list, with a value of 57.3 million euros.

Paris St Germain forward Kylian Mbappe is the most valuable soccer player in the world, according to Swiss research group CIES Football Observatory, followed by Real Madrid`s Vinicius Jr and new Manchester City recruit Erling Haaland.

Paris St Germain forward Kylian Mbappe is the most valuable soccer player in the world, according to Swiss research group CIES Football Observatory, followed by Real Madrid`s Vinicius Jr and new Manchester City recruit Erling Haaland. Mbappe, who turned down Real and signed a new three-year deal at PSG last month, topped the list with an estimated transfer value of 205.6 million euros ($219.5 million), beating Vinicius (185.3 million euros) and Haaland (152.6 million euros). Mbappe`s PSG teammate Neymar holds the current transfer record. The French champions paid Barcelona 222 million euros for his signature in 2017. ALSO READ | Former FIFA President Sepp Blatter and ex-UEFA President Michel Platini face Swiss corruption trail The top five was rounded off by Barca youngster Pedri (135.1 million euros) and Borussia Dortmund`s English midfielder Jude Bellingham (133.7 million euros). The CIES Football Observatory uses such indicators as player age, performance, career progression and contract duration to arrive at a transfer value. The latest list was dominated by Premier League players, with 41 representatives in the top 100. City`s Ruben Dias (109.6 million euros) had the highest transfer value for a defender while PSG`s Gianluigi Donnarumma (73.7 million euros) led among goalkeepers. City playmaker Kevin De Bruyne, 30, was the oldest player on the list, with a value of 57.3 million euros.

PSG superstar Kylian Mbappe is world's most valuable player, reveals study

Ukraine said it needs continuous military support and not a one-off aid amid ongoing battle. The US, Nordic countries & others pledged military support to Ukraine. The US, the UK, Canada are the other countries that have pledged military aid to Ukraine.

Weapons to Ukraine: US, France, Germany - Who's helping and with how much

Today is the anniversary of the Normandy Landings also known as D-day. Several dozen World War 2 veterans have attended commemorations in northern France, this D-day anniversary comes after two successive years of the covid -19 pandemic but more importantly it comes at a time when war is raging anew in Europe following Russian's invasion of Ukraine.

78th anniversary of Normandy Landings: D-day coincides with war in Ukraine

A severe storm has ravaged parts of France. 1 person was killed and around 14 people have been wounded so far. Hailstorms have damaged cars & boats.

Severe storm ravage parts of France, 1 killed, 14 wounded

Storms wreak havoc across France, electricity cut off for nearly 5,000 households - see pics

Prosecutor Edwige Roux-Morizot announced on Friday that four neo-Nazi males in the Alsace area of France had been charged with owning and trafficking a "amazing" number of firearms intended for use against Jews.

The men, aged 45 to 53, were members of far-right neo-Nazi organisations and had planned to "hunt Jews" during a soccer match in Strasbourg, according to Roux-Morizot.

During the arrest, she added, French police recovered 18 legal and 23 illicit guns, as well as 120,000 bullets and neo-Nazi literature.

In response to an upsurge in antisemitic occurrences in recent years, France has increased its monitoring of far-right extremists, with President Emmanuel Macron visiting a destroyed Jewish cemetery in Alsace in December 2019.

Watch | Gravitas: This Jewish Community is under attack in China | The story of Kaifeng's jews

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Investigators have not yet established whether the guys were plotting an assault, but antisemitic and Holocaust-denial publications have been discovered, and computer equipment is being examined, according to Roux-Morizot.

They also uncovered bullet-making equipment as well as more than 25,000 euros ($26,800) in cash.

The suspects have been charged with trafficking in guns and could face up to ten years in jail if convicted.

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Prosecutor Edwige Roux-Morizot announced on Friday that four neo-Nazi males in the Alsace area of France had been charged with owning and trafficking a "amazing" number of firearms intended for use against Jews.

Prosecutor Edwige Roux-Morizot announced on Friday that four neo-Nazi males in the Alsace area of France had been charged with owning and trafficking a "amazing" number of firearms intended for use against Jews. The men, aged 45 to 53, were members of far-right neo-Nazi organisations and had planned to "hunt Jews" during a soccer match in Strasbourg, according to Roux-Morizot. During the arrest, she added, French police recovered 18 legal and 23 illicit guns, as well as 120,000 bullets and neo-Nazi literature. In response to an upsurge in antisemitic occurrences in recent years, France has increased its monitoring of far-right extremists, with President Emmanuel Macron visiting a destroyed Jewish cemetery in Alsace in December 2019. Watch | Gravitas: This Jewish Community is under attack in China | The story of Kaifeng's jews Investigators have not yet established whether the guys were plotting an assault, but antisemitic and Holocaust-denial publications have been discovered, and computer equipment is being examined, according to Roux-Morizot. They also uncovered bullet-making equipment as well as more than 25,000 euros ($26,800) in cash. The suspects have been charged with trafficking in guns and could face up to ten years in jail if convicted. 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.

'Planning to hunt Jews during football match': Four neo-Nazis arrested in France

The UEFA Nations League 2022-23 edition is set to kick off on June 01, which will see&nbsp;many&nbsp;European&nbsp;giants such as Spain, Germany, England,&nbsp;Portugal, defending champions France, etc. locking horns with each other.

For the unversed, all the teams have been divided into four Leagues - A, B, C and D. The League A features four groups of an equal number of&nbsp;teams (4) each while the same format is&nbsp;in the League B and C as well. However, League D comprises only two groups.

It is important to note that&nbsp;Russia, suspended by UEFA following the Ukraine invasion early this year, have been placed bottom of Group B2.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ucl-final-uefa-french-federation-estimate-2800-fake-tickets-scanned-in-marquee-clash-sources-483890">UCL final: UEFA, French federation estimate 2,800 'fake tickets' scanned in marquee clash - Sources</a>

UEFA Nations League 2022-23 Leagues and Groups:

League A

<ul>
	<li>Group A1: France, Denmark, Croatia, Austria</li>
	<li>Group A2: Spain, Switzerland,&nbsp;Portugal, Czech Republic</li>
	<li>Group A3: Italy, Germany, England, Hungary</li>
	<li>Group A4: Belgium, Poland, Netherlands, Wales</li>
</ul>

League B

<ul>
	<li>Group B1: Ukraine, Scotland, Republic of Ireland, Armenia</li>
	<li>Group B2: Iceland, Russia*, Israel, Albania</li>
	<li>Group B3: Finland, Romania, Montenegro,&nbsp;Bosnia and Herzegovina,</li>
	<li>Group B4: Sweden, Serbia, Norway, Slovenia</li>
</ul>

League C

<ul>
	<li>Group C1: Turkey, Luxembourg, Lithuania, Faroe Islands</li>
	<li>Group C2: Greece, Northern Ireland, Kosovo, Cyprus</li>
	<li>Group C3: Slovakia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan</li>
	<li>Group C4: North Macedonia, Bulgaria, Georgia, Gibraltar</li>
</ul>

League D

<ul>
	<li>Group D1: Liechtenstein, Moldova, Latvia,&nbsp;Andorra</li>
	<li>Group D2: Malta, San Marino,Estonia</li>
</ul>

UEFA Nations League Schedule:

The group stage&nbsp;will commence on June 01 and will last till September 27. Meanwhile, the semi-finals and final will take place&nbsp;in June 2023.

Matchdays 1 &amp; 2: 1–8 June 2022 
Matchdays 3 &amp; 4: 9–14 June 2022 
Matchdays 5 &amp; 6: 22–27 September 2022 
Finals draw: To be confirmed... 
Semi-finals: 14 &amp; 15 June 2023 
Final &amp; 3rd place match: 18 June 2023

Play-outs: 21–23 &amp; 24–26 March 2024

UEFA Nations League 2022-23 Live Streaming and Telecast:

The Nations League 2022-23&nbsp;will be broadcast&nbsp;live on the Sony Sports Network. The live streaming&nbsp;of the mega event will be&nbsp;on the Sony Liv app.

The UEFA Nations League 2022-23 edition is set to kick off on June 01, which will see many European giants such as Spain, Germany, England, Portugal, defending champions France, etc.

The UEFA Nations League 2022-23 edition is set to kick off on June 01, which will see many European giants such as Spain, Germany, England, Portugal, defending champions France, etc. locking horns with each other. For the unversed, all the teams have been divided into four Leagues - A, B, C and D. The League A features four groups of an equal number of teams (4) each while the same format is in the League B and C as well. However, League D comprises only two groups. It is important to note that Russia, suspended by UEFA following the Ukraine invasion early this year, have been placed bottom of Group B2. ALSO READ | UCL final: UEFA, French federation estimate 2,800 'fake tickets' scanned in marquee clash - Sources UEFA Nations League 2022-23 Leagues and Groups: League A Group A1: France, Denmark, Croatia, Austria Group A2: Spain, Switzerland, Portugal, Czech Republic Group A3: Italy, Germany, England, Hungary Group A4: Belgium, Poland, Netherlands, Wales League B Group B1: Ukraine, Scotland, Republic of Ireland, Armenia Group B2: Iceland, Russia*, Israel, Albania Group B3: Finland, Romania, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Group B4: Sweden, Serbia, Norway, Slovenia League C Group C1: Turkey, Luxembourg, Lithuania, Faroe Islands Group C2: Greece, Northern Ireland, Kosovo, Cyprus Group C3: Slovakia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan Group C4: North Macedonia, Bulgaria, Georgia, Gibraltar League D Group D1: Liechtenstein, Moldova, Latvia, Andorra Group D2: Malta, San Marino,Estonia UEFA Nations League Schedule: The group stage will commence on June 01 and will last till September 27. Meanwhile, the semi-finals and final will take place in June 2023. Matchdays 1 & 2: 1–8 June 2022 Matchdays 3 & 4: 9–14 June 2022 Matchdays 5 & 6: 22–27 September 2022 Finals draw: To be confirmed... Semi-finals: 14 & 15 June 2023 Final & 3rd place match: 18 June 2023 Play-outs: 21–23 & 24–26 March 2024 UEFA Nations League 2022-23 Live Streaming and Telecast: The Nations League 2022-23 will be broadcast live on the Sony Sports Network. The live streaming of the mega event will be on the Sony Liv app.

UEFA Nations League 2022-23: Everything you need to know about groups, teams, telecast, live Streaming

Manchester United is going for an overhaul ahead of the next season as Paul Pogba has ended his six-year-long association with the Red Devils. The Frenchman, who is&nbsp;regarded as one of the most versatile players on the field, will be departing from the club as a free agent after talks didn't materialise for a contract extension.&nbsp;

For the unversed, Poga joined&nbsp;the United academy at the age of sixteen. He played for the club till 2012 before leaving on a free transfer at 19. From thereon, Pogba joined Juventus and rose up the ranks with his scintillating performances on the field. United broke the bank in a bid to bring back Poga, however, this time around his tenure wasn't as fruitful.&nbsp;During his stay, United's best position in the league was when they ended at the second spot under Jose Mourinho. The 29-year-old had a turbulent time at the club due to his terms with Mourinho and&nbsp;to some extent with Ralf Rangnick as well.

The midfielder has once again seen&nbsp;interest from Juventus and Real Madrid. It will be interesting to see if he joins the UEFA Champions League winners or goes back to his former club.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/west-ham-footballer-kurt-zouma-given-180-hours-of-community-service-for-kicking-his-cat-484143">West Ham footballer Kurt Zouma given 180 hours of community service for kicking his cat</a>

A lot of chopping and changes are happening at the Red Devils post their ordinary run in the current season of the EPL. Under the new regime of&nbsp;Erik ten Hag, a lot of many changes are on the cards -- as confirmed by the Dutchman -- as some new faces might get added to the Manchester-based club. Earlier, veteran goalkeeper Lee Grant had also ended his tenure at the club.

Manchester United is going for an overhaul ahead of the next season as Paul Pogba has ended his six-year-long association with the Red Devils. The Frenchman, who is regarded as one of the most versatile players on the field, will be departing from the club as a free agent after talks didn't materialise for a contract extension.

Manchester United is going for an overhaul ahead of the next season as Paul Pogba has ended his six-year-long association with the Red Devils. The Frenchman, who is regarded as one of the most versatile players on the field, will be departing from the club as a free agent after talks didn't materialise for a contract extension. For the unversed, Poga joined the United academy at the age of sixteen. He played for the club till 2012 before leaving on a free transfer at 19. From thereon, Pogba joined Juventus and rose up the ranks with his scintillating performances on the field. United broke the bank in a bid to bring back Poga, however, this time around his tenure wasn't as fruitful. During his stay, United's best position in the league was when they ended at the second spot under Jose Mourinho. The 29-year-old had a turbulent time at the club due to his terms with Mourinho and to some extent with Ralf Rangnick as well. The midfielder has once again seen interest from Juventus and Real Madrid. It will be interesting to see if he joins the UEFA Champions League winners or goes back to his former club. ALSO READ | West Ham footballer Kurt Zouma given 180 hours of community service for kicking his cat A lot of chopping and changes are happening at the Red Devils post their ordinary run in the current season of the EPL. Under the new regime of Erik ten Hag, a lot of many changes are on the cards -- as confirmed by the Dutchman -- as some new faces might get added to the Manchester-based club. Earlier, veteran goalkeeper Lee Grant had also ended his tenure at the club.

France's Paul Pogba ends six-year association with Manchester United, leaves as free agent

In today’s globalisation, preserving the purity of a language may seem impossible. But it looks like the French officials will leave no stone unturned to ensure it. In a recent move, the officials of the country have come up with new translations of English video game jargons on Monday. With this move, these officials seem to have continued their centuries-old battle to secure purity of the language. Today’s sector of video games is full of anglicisms, which could act as "a barrier to understanding" for non-gamers, the culture ministry, which is handling the process, told AFP. &nbsp;

Some expressions are easy translations like 'pro-gamer' becomes 'joueur professionnel' while others are a bit strained as "streamer" turns into "joueur-animateur en direct". &nbsp;

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For years, France has been issuing warnings of the debasement of its language from England.&nbsp;Academie Francaise, which is a centuries-old language watchdog, warned of a "degradation that must not be seen as inevitable" in February.&nbsp;

The changes made on Monday by the officials will have to be followed by government workers as they have been issued in the official journal.&nbsp;In the changes, "cloud gaming" has become "jeu video en nuage", and "eSports" is now translated as "jeu video de competition". &nbsp;The whole idea behind the exercise was to allow people to communicate easily, said the ministry. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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In today’s globalisation, preserving the purity of a language may seem impossible. But it looks like the French officials will leave no stone unturned to ensure it.

In today’s globalisation, preserving the purity of a language may seem impossible. But it looks like the French officials will leave no stone unturned to ensure it. In a recent move, the officials of the country have come up with new translations of English video game jargons on Monday. With this move, these officials seem to have continued their centuries-old battle to secure purity of the language. Today’s sector of video games is full of anglicisms, which could act as "a barrier to understanding" for non-gamers, the culture ministry, which is handling the process, told AFP. Some expressions are easy translations like 'pro-gamer' becomes 'joueur professionnel' while others are a bit strained as "streamer" turns into "joueur-animateur en direct". WATCH WION LIVE HERE For years, France has been issuing warnings of the debasement of its language from England. Academie Francaise, which is a centuries-old language watchdog, warned of a "degradation that must not be seen as inevitable" in February. The changes made on Monday by the officials will have to be followed by government workers as they have been issued in the official journal. In the changes, "cloud gaming" has become "jeu video en nuage", and "eSports" is now translated as "jeu video de competition". The whole idea behind the exercise was to allow people to communicate easily, said the ministry. (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. ×

France looks to preserve language’s purity, translates even English video game jargons

Paris is demanding an immediate probe into the killing of a French journalist in Ukraine. Reports suggest that he was killed by shrapnel from a Russian shell.

French journalist killed in Ukraine, Paris demands an immediate probe

The French government hosted an emergency meeting on Monday after crowd trouble marred last weekend`s Champions League soccer final, which France`s sports minister said was initially caused by Liverpool fans turning up without valid tickets.

"We need to take all the necessary steps to make sure this never happens again", said French sports minister Amelie Oudea-Castera, at the start of the meeting.

The crowd trouble at the match in Paris has become a political issue ahead of French parliamentary elections in mid-June, and with France due to host the 2023 Rugby World Cup and the 2024 Olympics.

"The images are lamentable, they are disturbing because we can clearly see that we are not prepared for events such as the Olympic Games", said far-left leader Jean-Luc Melenchon on Sunday, while his far-right rival Marine Le Pen called the incident a "humiliation" for France.

Far-right politician Eric Zemmour had also said the trouble was caused principally by local youths from the nearby Paris Seine Saint Denis district, rather than Liverpool fans.

Oudea-Castera said Liverpool fans without valid tickets were responsible for the initial crowd problems at the Champions League final, with the problem then exacerbated by local youths trying to force their way in to the game.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/kings-of-europe-chaos-controvery-and-drama-but-real-madrid-win-14th-champions-league-crown-483142">Kings of Europe! Chaos, controversy and drama but Real Madrid win 14th Champions League crown</a>

"What we really have to bear in mind is that what happened first of all was this mass gathering of British supporters of the Liverpool club, without tickets, or with fake tickets," Oudea-Castera told RTL radio on Monday.

"When there are that many people by the entrance to the stadium, there will be people trying to force their way in through the doors of the Stade de France, and a certain number of youths from the nearby area who were present tried to get in by mixing in with the crowd," she told French radio RTL.

The match had to be delayed by 35 minutes after police tried to hold back people attempting to force their way into the national stadium without tickets, while some ticket holders complained that they were not let in.

Television footage showed images of young men who did not appear to be wearing red Liverpool jerseys jumping the gates of the stadium and running away from security to get into the match. Others outside, including children, were tear-gassed by riot police, said a Reuters witness.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-fans-caused-initial-problems-at-champions-league-final-claims-french-minister-483483">Liverpool fans caused initial problems at Champions League final, claims French minister</a>

Chris Philp, Britain`s minister for technology, said he was shocked by the images.

"I was horrified to see those pictures of fans including children, disabled fans, being pepper-sprayed by French police," he added. "And from the pictures I saw there was no obvious justification for that kind of behaviour."

Liverpool Chief Executive Billy Hogan said the club wanted a "transparent investigation" by governing body UEFA. Britain`s minister for sport, Nadine Dorries, also urged UEFA to investigate.

Oudea-Castera said there were no problems with Real Madrid supporters at Saturday`s match and that the Spanish side had managed to control their travelling fans better than Liverpool.

She added that France nevertheless had to examine stepping up security at high-risk soccer matches, with further trouble having broken out on Sunday after St Etienne were relegated from France`s Ligue 1.

The French government hosted an emergency meeting on Monday after crowd trouble marred last weekend`s Champions League soccer final, which France`s sports minister said was initially caused by Liverpool fans turning up without valid tickets.

The French government hosted an emergency meeting on Monday after crowd trouble marred last weekend`s Champions League soccer final, which France`s sports minister said was initially caused by Liverpool fans turning up without valid tickets. "We need to take all the necessary steps to make sure this never happens again", said French sports minister Amelie Oudea-Castera, at the start of the meeting. The crowd trouble at the match in Paris has become a political issue ahead of French parliamentary elections in mid-June, and with France due to host the 2023 Rugby World Cup and the 2024 Olympics. "The images are lamentable, they are disturbing because we can clearly see that we are not prepared for events such as the Olympic Games", said far-left leader Jean-Luc Melenchon on Sunday, while his far-right rival Marine Le Pen called the incident a "humiliation" for France. Far-right politician Eric Zemmour had also said the trouble was caused principally by local youths from the nearby Paris Seine Saint Denis district, rather than Liverpool fans. Oudea-Castera said Liverpool fans without valid tickets were responsible for the initial crowd problems at the Champions League final, with the problem then exacerbated by local youths trying to force their way in to the game. Also Read: Kings of Europe! Chaos, controversy and drama but Real Madrid win 14th Champions League crown "What we really have to bear in mind is that what happened first of all was this mass gathering of British supporters of the Liverpool club, without tickets, or with fake tickets," Oudea-Castera told RTL radio on Monday. "When there are that many people by the entrance to the stadium, there will be people trying to force their way in through the doors of the Stade de France, and a certain number of youths from the nearby area who were present tried to get in by mixing in with the crowd," she told French radio RTL. The match had to be delayed by 35 minutes after police tried to hold back people attempting to force their way into the national stadium without tickets, while some ticket holders complained that they were not let in. Television footage showed images of young men who did not appear to be wearing red Liverpool jerseys jumping the gates of the stadium and running away from security to get into the match. Others outside, including children, were tear-gassed by riot police, said a Reuters witness. Also Read: Liverpool fans caused initial problems at Champions League final, claims French minister Chris Philp, Britain`s minister for technology, said he was shocked by the images. "I was horrified to see those pictures of fans including children, disabled fans, being pepper-sprayed by French police," he added. "And from the pictures I saw there was no obvious justification for that kind of behaviour." Liverpool Chief Executive Billy Hogan said the club wanted a "transparent investigation" by governing body UEFA. Britain`s minister for sport, Nadine Dorries, also urged UEFA to investigate. Oudea-Castera said there were no problems with Real Madrid supporters at Saturday`s match and that the Spanish side had managed to control their travelling fans better than Liverpool. She added that France nevertheless had to examine stepping up security at high-risk soccer matches, with further trouble having broken out on Sunday after St Etienne were relegated from France`s Ligue 1.

France hosts emergency meeting after Champions League final chaos blamed on Liverpool

France’s most trusted anchorman for decades, he used to draw millions in an evening news program. In an earlier time, he embodied an ideal of the French male — at ease with himself, a TV journalist and man of letters, a husband and a father who was also, unabashedly, a great seducer of women.

Patrick Poivre d’Arvor, nicknamed the Sun King of French TV, seemed so confident of his reputation that last month he sued for defamation 16 women who had accused him of rape, sexual assault and harassment, saying that they were simply “jilted” and “bitter.”

Angered, nearly 20 women appeared together this month in a TV studio for Mediapart, France’s leading investigative news site, with some recounting rapes or assaults.

In what has become perhaps the biggest scandal in France’s delayed #MeToo reckoning, their accounts amounted to a devastating rejection of the romantic persona that Poivre d’Arvor so assiduously cultivated with the help of France’s gossip pages and its most powerful television network. At 74, he is clinging to that image, denying all accusations and arguing that he is just an inveterate serial “seducer.”

“He was called a Don Juan for years,” said Hélène Devynck, 55, a journalist who has accused Poivre d’Arvor of raping her at his home when she worked as one of his assistants in the early 1990s. “There were articles in Paris Match that said he was the paragon of French seduction. Which forces us now to ask, ‘What does that mean — French seduction?’”

A court could decide. Nearly all of the most serious accusations against Poivre d’Arvor occurred so long ago that the statute of limitations has expired. But since he has now sued, the case may provide his accusers the opportunity to confront him publicly in court in the coming months.

Poivre d’Arvor has dismissed the women as having been motivated by “vengeance,” because they had not “enjoyed the regard, or even a simple look, of a man they had once admired,” in a written complaint that has been cited in the news media and whose contents were authenticated by his lawyer, Philippe Naepels.

Poivre d’Arvor declined an interview request through Naepels, who said that at least one more woman could be included in the defamation suit. 
&nbsp;

France’s most trusted anchorman for decades, he used to draw millions in an evening news program. In an earlier time, he embodied an ideal of the French male — at ease with himself, a TV journalist and man of letters, a husband and a father who was also, unabashedly, a great seducer of women.

France’s most trusted anchorman for decades, he used to draw millions in an evening news program. In an earlier time, he embodied an ideal of the French male — at ease with himself, a TV journalist and man of letters, a husband and a father who was also, unabashedly, a great seducer of women. Patrick Poivre d’Arvor, nicknamed the Sun King of French TV, seemed so confident of his reputation that last month he sued for defamation 16 women who had accused him of rape, sexual assault and harassment, saying that they were simply “jilted” and “bitter.” Angered, nearly 20 women appeared together this month in a TV studio for Mediapart, France’s leading investigative news site, with some recounting rapes or assaults. In what has become perhaps the biggest scandal in France’s delayed #MeToo reckoning, their accounts amounted to a devastating rejection of the romantic persona that Poivre d’Arvor so assiduously cultivated with the help of France’s gossip pages and its most powerful television network. At 74, he is clinging to that image, denying all accusations and arguing that he is just an inveterate serial “seducer.” “He was called a Don Juan for years,” said Hélène Devynck, 55, a journalist who has accused Poivre d’Arvor of raping her at his home when she worked as one of his assistants in the early 1990s. “There were articles in Paris Match that said he was the paragon of French seduction. Which forces us now to ask, ‘What does that mean — French seduction?’” A court could decide. Nearly all of the most serious accusations against Poivre d’Arvor occurred so long ago that the statute of limitations has expired. But since he has now sued, the case may provide his accusers the opportunity to confront him publicly in court in the coming months. Poivre d’Arvor has dismissed the women as having been motivated by “vengeance,” because they had not “enjoyed the regard, or even a simple look, of a man they had once admired,” in a written complaint that has been cited in the news media and whose contents were authenticated by his lawyer, Philippe Naepels. Poivre d’Arvor declined an interview request through Naepels, who said that at least one more woman could be included in the defamation suit.

The fall of the ‘Sun King’ of French TV, and the myth of seduction

Lester Piggott who died on Sunday aged 86 is widely regarded as one of the greatest ever jockeys and certainly the greatest to be a guest at Her Majesty's Pleasure.

Known as the 'Long Fellow' for his height he would keep his weight down by relying on a daily diet of &nbsp;chocolate, champagne and a cigar leading to his stony expression being likened to "a well kept grave".

He became the 'housewives favourite' when it came to placing bets on the Epsom Derby and with good reason as he rode nine winners of the 'blue riband' of the turf.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/horse-racing-legend-lester-piggott-hospitalised-in-switzerland-481481">Horse racing legend Lester Piggott hospitalised in Switzerland</a>

Not bad for this child prodigy whose own mother had dismissed his chances of greatness after winning his first race aged 12 on August 18, 1948.

Iris opined: "He is quite a good rider, but will never be as good as his father. Don’t make a fuss. Lester is a very ordinary boy."

In all the poker-faced Piggott -- whose taciturn nature in part stemmed from partial deafness - guided home 30 classic winners in his famously singular riding style.

A large proportion of those were for the training legend Vincent O'Brien with greats such as Nijinsky, Sir Ivor, The Minstrel and the two-time Arc de Triomphe winner Alleged.

Watch |&nbsp;

Indeed the 11-times British champion jockey&nbsp;formed racing's 'dream team' with O'Brien and charismatic owner Robert Sangster until they cut the tie with him in 1980 and employed Pat Eddery.

Piggott smarted from this very public sacking -- although he remained friends with Sangster till the latter died in 2004 -- but in a perfect example of revenge is a dish best served cold he got his opportunity after the 1984 Derby.

For all his reticence Piggott had a wickedly dry sense of humour and when an over-confident Eddery contrived to lose the Derby on hot favourite El Gran Senor -- to Secreto trained by O'Brien's eldest son David -- Piggott struck.

<h3>Will to win&nbsp;</h3>

"Did you miss me," muttered Piggott, who'd finished down the field, as he strode past the distraught Sangster and O'Brien huddle.

With Piggott's family embedded in racing folklore with grandfather Ernie a three-time Grand National winner and his dad Keith&nbsp;training the winner of the great steeplechase in 1963, he had a will to win unrivalled even among a generation that included Eddery, Willie Carson and Joe Mercer.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/valentina-sampaio-becomes-first-trans-model-in-sports-illustrateds-swimsuit-issue-312567">Valentina Sampaio becomes first trans model in Sports Illustrated’s swimsuit issue</a>

Often enough it got him into trouble, most notably in a hilarious incident -- that is if you were watching from the stands -- at Deauville in 1979.

Riding in the Grand Prix de Deauville Piggott's whip was knocked from his hand and looking around snatched a replacement whip from the late Alain Lequeux -- Piggott was to finish second and his bemused colleague third.

"Well he wasn't going to need it," quipped Piggott afterwards -- the French stewards didn't see the funny side at all and slapped him with a 20 day ban.

When it was put to him in an interview last year had he been over the top in his use of the whip on Roberto and The Minstrel in the 1972 and 1977 Derbies he denied it had been that savage.

"You couldn’t have used it (the whip) like that these days," he told The Guardian.

"But I never really hurt the horses. It seemed like I was whacking them but it never was as bad as it looked."

Piggott, though, got whacked and badly at that when the British taxman came calling just as he was making a name as a trainer after retiring from the saddle in 1985.

Scrutiny of his accounts showed the great man had been almost as reluctant at paying his taxes on revenue of £3million as he had been at public speaking.

Stripped of the ridiculously minor award, given his achievements, he had received from the noted turfiste Queen Elizabeth II, he got no quarter from the judge at his trial being sentenced to three years in 1987 of which he served just over a year.

"It was stupid, really, to be there. I don’t know how to describe it. It was just unnecessary," he told The Guardian in 2015."

However, fortunately for the man and for his adoring public there was to be a quite sensational post-script in 1990.

Piggott returned to the saddle as lead actor with the director his old employer O'Brien, the set was Belmont Park in the United States and the co-star Royal Academy in the million dollar Grade One Breeder's Cup Mile.

It was quite a call for O'Brien to make as Piggott had only been back in the saddle for 10 days but the old magic was there and he guided home the Irish runner for a tearjerking and memorable win.

His assessment of that day was typically succinct. When asked about it years later by the great racing journalist Brough Scott he said: "You never forget".

Lester Keith Piggott was born on November 5, 1935. He married Susan Armstrong in 1980 and leaves three children. After separating from his wife he lived out his later years in Switzerland.

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Lester Piggott who died on Sunday aged 86 is widely regarded as one of the greatest ever jockeys and certainly the greatest to be a guest at Her Majesty's Pleasure.

Lester Piggott who died on Sunday aged 86 is widely regarded as one of the greatest ever jockeys and certainly the greatest to be a guest at Her Majesty's Pleasure. Known as the 'Long Fellow' for his height he would keep his weight down by relying on a daily diet of chocolate, champagne and a cigar leading to his stony expression being likened to "a well kept grave". He became the 'housewives favourite' when it came to placing bets on the Epsom Derby and with good reason as he rode nine winners of the 'blue riband' of the turf. Also read | Horse racing legend Lester Piggott hospitalised in Switzerland Not bad for this child prodigy whose own mother had dismissed his chances of greatness after winning his first race aged 12 on August 18, 1948. Iris opined: "He is quite a good rider, but will never be as good as his father. Don’t make a fuss. Lester is a very ordinary boy." In all the poker-faced Piggott -- whose taciturn nature in part stemmed from partial deafness - guided home 30 classic winners in his famously singular riding style. A large proportion of those were for the training legend Vincent O'Brien with greats such as Nijinsky, Sir Ivor, The Minstrel and the two-time Arc de Triomphe winner Alleged. Watch | Indeed the 11-times British champion jockey formed racing's 'dream team' with O'Brien and charismatic owner Robert Sangster until they cut the tie with him in 1980 and employed Pat Eddery. Piggott smarted from this very public sacking -- although he remained friends with Sangster till the latter died in 2004 -- but in a perfect example of revenge is a dish best served cold he got his opportunity after the 1984 Derby. For all his reticence Piggott had a wickedly dry sense of humour and when an over-confident Eddery contrived to lose the Derby on hot favourite El Gran Senor -- to Secreto trained by O'Brien's eldest son David -- Piggott struck. Will to win "Did you miss me," muttered Piggott, who'd finished down the field, as he strode past the distraught Sangster and O'Brien huddle. With Piggott's family embedded in racing folklore with grandfather Ernie a three-time Grand National winner and his dad Keith training the winner of the great steeplechase in 1963, he had a will to win unrivalled even among a generation that included Eddery, Willie Carson and Joe Mercer. Also read | Valentina Sampaio becomes first trans model in Sports Illustrated’s swimsuit issue Often enough it got him into trouble, most notably in a hilarious incident -- that is if you were watching from the stands -- at Deauville in 1979. Riding in the Grand Prix de Deauville Piggott's whip was knocked from his hand and looking around snatched a replacement whip from the late Alain Lequeux -- Piggott was to finish second and his bemused colleague third. "Well he wasn't going to need it," quipped Piggott afterwards -- the French stewards didn't see the funny side at all and slapped him with a 20 day ban. When it was put to him in an interview last year had he been over the top in his use of the whip on Roberto and The Minstrel in the 1972 and 1977 Derbies he denied it had been that savage. "You couldn’t have used it (the whip) like that these days," he told The Guardian. "But I never really hurt the horses. It seemed like I was whacking them but it never was as bad as it looked." Piggott, though, got whacked and badly at that when the British taxman came calling just as he was making a name as a trainer after retiring from the saddle in 1985. Scrutiny of his accounts showed the great man had been almost as reluctant at paying his taxes on revenue of £3million as he had been at public speaking. Stripped of the ridiculously minor award, given his achievements, he had received from the noted turfiste Queen Elizabeth II, he got no quarter from the judge at his trial being sentenced to three years in 1987 of which he served just over a year. "It was stupid, really, to be there. I don’t know how to describe it. It was just unnecessary," he told The Guardian in 2015." However, fortunately for the man and for his adoring public there was to be a quite sensational post-script in 1990. Piggott returned to the saddle as lead actor with the director his old employer O'Brien, the set was Belmont Park in the United States and the co-star Royal Academy in the million dollar Grade One Breeder's Cup Mile. It was quite a call for O'Brien to make as Piggott had only been back in the saddle for 10 days but the old magic was there and he guided home the Irish runner for a tearjerking and memorable win. His assessment of that day was typically succinct. When asked about it years later by the great racing journalist Brough Scott he said: "You never forget". Lester Keith Piggott was born on November 5, 1935. He married Susan Armstrong in 1980 and leaves three children. After separating from his wife he lived out his later years in Switzerland. 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.

Piggott - The 'Long Fellow' who felt the long arm of the law

Weeks after the French city of Grenoble passed an order allowing Muslim women to wear the Burkini in public swimming pools, a French court has now struck down the order, arguing that the full-body swimsuit seriously violated the principle of neutrality in public service.

French court struck down rule allowing 'Burkinis' in public swimming pools

In pics - The life and art of renowned French street artist Miss.Tic

Cannes 2022: Sharon Stone, Isabelle Huppert add glamour on day 6 of the festival

Just days after French President Emmanuel Macron unveiled his new cabinet, a storm is set to hit his government just ahead of the June parliamentary elections.

There's a scandal brewing.&nbsp;

Recently-appointed Minister for solidarities and people with disabilities, Damien Abad is facing accusations of sexually assaulting two women over a decade ago.

His appointment had already faced mocking by the opposition, as it came only a day after he abandoned his conservative mainstream party for Macron's centrist one.

Watch |&nbsp;France: Emmanuel Macron reshuffles cabinet ahead of parliamentary elections

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On Saturday, a day after the new government was declared, the allegations against him were made. According to reports, a complaint was filed in one of the cases in 2017, but it was later dismissed.

In the other case, no legal action has been taken yet.

A women's rights watchdog has claimed that leading members of President Macron's party were informed of the complaints four days before the announcement of the new cabinet, on May 16th.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-emmanuel-macron-reshuffles-cabinet-retains-finance-interior-ministers-480844">French President Emmanuel Macron reshuffles cabinet, retains finance, interior ministers</a>

Elisabeth Borne, the new Prime Minister, however, has denied any knowledge of the allegations surrounding Abad. She said that "there will be no impunity" in cases involving members of the new government once judicial authorities step in.

However, she failed to mention when during the legal proceedings would the removal of the government official will take place.

Opposition politicians have called for his immediate resignation.&nbsp;

"If I were prime minister, I would tell Damien Abad: 'I have no particular reason to believe the women are lying... While we wait for a decision from the judicial system, I wish for you not to be part of the government,'" said, Socialist Party leader Olivier Faure while talking to France Inter radio.&nbsp;

Sandrine Rousseau, a Green Party politician, has also called for Abad's removal.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-emmanuel-macron-names-elisabeth-borne-as-frances-new-prime-minister-479690">French President Emmanuel Macron names Elisabeth Borne as France's new prime minister</a>

Abad, who suffers from arthrogryposis, a rare physical disability that affects muscles and joints has vehemently denied the accusations. He claims that given his disability, he is physically incapable of committing the act.

He said that he had been previously been forced to make it clear that due to his disability "sexual act can only take place with the assistance and help" of his partner.&nbsp;

One of the complainants in her allegations had said that she was unconscious when Abad raped her, however, the minister said that the claim he could "drug, carry, undress and rape an unconscious woman are inconceivable and abject."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Just days after French President Emmanuel Macron unveiled his new cabinet, a storm is set to hit his government just ahead of the June parliamentary elections. There's a scandal brewing.

Just days after French President Emmanuel Macron unveiled his new cabinet, a storm is set to hit his government just ahead of the June parliamentary elections. There's a scandal brewing. Recently-appointed Minister for solidarities and people with disabilities, Damien Abad is facing accusations of sexually assaulting two women over a decade ago. His appointment had already faced mocking by the opposition, as it came only a day after he abandoned his conservative mainstream party for Macron's centrist one. Watch | France: Emmanuel Macron reshuffles cabinet ahead of parliamentary elections On Saturday, a day after the new government was declared, the allegations against him were made. According to reports, a complaint was filed in one of the cases in 2017, but it was later dismissed. In the other case, no legal action has been taken yet. A women's rights watchdog has claimed that leading members of President Macron's party were informed of the complaints four days before the announcement of the new cabinet, on May 16th. Also read | French President Emmanuel Macron reshuffles cabinet, retains finance, interior ministers Elisabeth Borne, the new Prime Minister, however, has denied any knowledge of the allegations surrounding Abad. She said that "there will be no impunity" in cases involving members of the new government once judicial authorities step in. However, she failed to mention when during the legal proceedings would the removal of the government official will take place. Opposition politicians have called for his immediate resignation. "If I were prime minister, I would tell Damien Abad: 'I have no particular reason to believe the women are lying... While we wait for a decision from the judicial system, I wish for you not to be part of the government,'" said, Socialist Party leader Olivier Faure while talking to France Inter radio. Sandrine Rousseau, a Green Party politician, has also called for Abad's removal. Also Read: French President Emmanuel Macron names Elisabeth Borne as France's new prime minister Abad, who suffers from arthrogryposis, a rare physical disability that affects muscles and joints has vehemently denied the accusations. He claims that given his disability, he is physically incapable of committing the act. He said that he had been previously been forced to make it clear that due to his disability "sexual act can only take place with the assistance and help" of his partner. One of the complainants in her allegations had said that she was unconscious when Abad raped her, however, the minister said that the claim he could "drug, carry, undress and rape an unconscious woman are inconceivable and abject." (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Scandal hits Macron's government just days after cabinet's appointment, minister accused of sexual assault

The case of the 2009 accident of a Yemenia Airways flight that killed 152 people, but miraculously left a 12-year-old girl alive began on Monday in a French court.

Bahia Bakari, now 25, testified in the French trial against the airline about the harrowing minutes prior to her plummet into the ocean and the miraculous rescue.

Recalling the terrifying ordeal Bakari told the court that she "didn't see how I was going to get through this," adding that she spent hours in the water holding on to a piece of debris, with "the taste of jet fuel" in her mouth.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scandal-hits-macrons-government-just-days-after-cabinets-appointment-minister-accused-of-sexual-assault-481576" hreflang="en">Scandal hits Macron's government just days after cabinet's appointment, minister accused of sexual assault</a>

Previously too in interviews and in her own book the sole survivor had recalled "turbulence" during the flight's approach, before feeling something like an electric shock and then blacking out, only to wake up in the sea.

She flew with her mother from Paris to Comoros for her grandfather's wedding on June 29, 2009, changing aircraft in Sanaa, Yemen, for the final part of the journey.

"It was a smaller plane, there were flies inside and it smelled strongly like a bathroom,"&nbsp;she added, adding that "the flight went normally" until the landing descent began.

Watch |&nbsp;Indigenous Mapuche weavers are aiming to break world record

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Before a psychologist at the hospital told her she was the sole survivor, she was certain "that I was the only one who fell" and that the other passengers had landed safely.

Her voice breaking Bakari remarked,&nbsp;&nbsp;with&nbsp;tears streaming for the first time throughout her testimony, "The hardest thing for me has been dealing with the grief for my mother, I was very close to her."

After departure from Sanaa airport on June 29, 2009, aircraft Yemenia 626 was on its way to Moroni, the capital of the Comoros islands which is located between Mozambique and Madagascar.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-world-powers-stop-flexing-their-muscles-ever-481617" hreflang="en">Will world powers stop flexing their muscles ever?</a>

However, instead of landing safely, the Airbus A310 plunged into the Indian Ocean with its engines running at full power shortly before 11:00 pm, killing everyone on board save Bahia Bakari.

The Yemeni national airline faces a maximum penalty of 225,000 euros ($240,000) for involuntary homicide and injuries in a four-week trial.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The case of the 2009 accident of a Yemenia Airways flight that killed 152 people, but miraculously left a 12-year-old girl alive began on Monday in a French court.

The case of the 2009 accident of a Yemenia Airways flight that killed 152 people, but miraculously left a 12-year-old girl alive began on Monday in a French court. Bahia Bakari, now 25, testified in the French trial against the airline about the harrowing minutes prior to her plummet into the ocean and the miraculous rescue. Recalling the terrifying ordeal Bakari told the court that she "didn't see how I was going to get through this," adding that she spent hours in the water holding on to a piece of debris, with "the taste of jet fuel" in her mouth. Also read | Scandal hits Macron's government just days after cabinet's appointment, minister accused of sexual assault Previously too in interviews and in her own book the sole survivor had recalled "turbulence" during the flight's approach, before feeling something like an electric shock and then blacking out, only to wake up in the sea. She flew with her mother from Paris to Comoros for her grandfather's wedding on June 29, 2009, changing aircraft in Sanaa, Yemen, for the final part of the journey. "It was a smaller plane, there were flies inside and it smelled strongly like a bathroom," she added, adding that "the flight went normally" until the landing descent began. Watch | Indigenous Mapuche weavers are aiming to break world record Before a psychologist at the hospital told her she was the sole survivor, she was certain "that I was the only one who fell" and that the other passengers had landed safely. Her voice breaking Bakari remarked, with tears streaming for the first time throughout her testimony, "The hardest thing for me has been dealing with the grief for my mother, I was very close to her." After departure from Sanaa airport on June 29, 2009, aircraft Yemenia 626 was on its way to Moroni, the capital of the Comoros islands which is located between Mozambique and Madagascar. Also read | Will world powers stop flexing their muscles ever? However, instead of landing safely, the Airbus A310 plunged into the Indian Ocean with its engines running at full power shortly before 11:00 pm, killing everyone on board save Bahia Bakari. The Yemeni national airline faces a maximum penalty of 225,000 euros ($240,000) for involuntary homicide and injuries in a four-week trial. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Sole survivor of catastrophic 2009 Yemeni crash recalls the horror of the tragedy, which killed 152 people

French President Emmanuel Macron's newly appointed minister in charge of solidarity and people with disabilities denied on Sunday allegations of rape from over a decade ago, revealed by an investigative website.

Damien&nbsp;Abad, a right-wing heavyweight, was a political coup for the centrist Macron in a cabinet shuffle announced on Friday to prepare for parliament elections next month.

The next day, the Mediapart website reported a politics watchdog group created by members of France's MeToo movement had informed prosecutors as well as Macron's LREM party of rape claims against&nbsp;Abad&nbsp;by two women in 2010 and 2011.

The report said one of the women informed the police in 2012 but then declined to formally make a complaint, and her subsequent claim in 2017 was later dismissed by prosecutors.

The Paris prosecutor's office confirmed on Sunday it was informed of the two claims by the MeToo watchdog on Friday, and they were being investigated.

"I contest in the strongest way these accusations of sexual violence. I contest having ever used any form of coercion whatsoever against any woman,"&nbsp;Abad&nbsp;said in a statement.

"For my entire life the sexual relations I have had have always been with mutual consent," he added.

Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne, herself appointed by Macron last week, said on Sunday she had not known of the allegations before&nbsp;Abad's nomination.

"Obviously I was not aware," she said during a campaign visit in Calvados, western France, ahead of the parliamentary vote, when Macron is hoping to secure a solid majority for his second five-year term.

"I have no further information other than the fact that the case was dismissed," she said, while promising that "on the subjects of harassment and sexual assault, there can be no impunity."

"If there is new information, if a new complaint is filed, we will draw all the consequences," Borne said.

In 2012,&nbsp;Abad, now 42, became the first handicapped person to be elected to the lower-house National Assembly, and was the leader of his Republican party's MPs until he joined Macron's government.&nbsp;

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French President Emmanuel Macron's newly appointed minister in charge of solidarity and people with disabilities denied on Sunday allegations of rape from over a decade ago, revealed by an investigative website.

French President Emmanuel Macron's newly appointed minister in charge of solidarity and people with disabilities denied on Sunday allegations of rape from over a decade ago, revealed by an investigative website. Damien Abad, a right-wing heavyweight, was a political coup for the centrist Macron in a cabinet shuffle announced on Friday to prepare for parliament elections next month. The next day, the Mediapart website reported a politics watchdog group created by members of France's MeToo movement had informed prosecutors as well as Macron's LREM party of rape claims against Abad by two women in 2010 and 2011. The report said one of the women informed the police in 2012 but then declined to formally make a complaint, and her subsequent claim in 2017 was later dismissed by prosecutors. The Paris prosecutor's office confirmed on Sunday it was informed of the two claims by the MeToo watchdog on Friday, and they were being investigated. "I contest in the strongest way these accusations of sexual violence. I contest having ever used any form of coercion whatsoever against any woman," Abad said in a statement. "For my entire life the sexual relations I have had have always been with mutual consent," he added. Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne, herself appointed by Macron last week, said on Sunday she had not known of the allegations before Abad's nomination. "Obviously I was not aware," she said during a campaign visit in Calvados, western France, ahead of the parliamentary vote, when Macron is hoping to secure a solid majority for his second five-year term. "I have no further information other than the fact that the case was dismissed," she said, while promising that "on the subjects of harassment and sexual assault, there can be no impunity." "If there is new information, if a new complaint is filed, we will draw all the consequences," Borne said. In 2012, Abad, now 42, became the first handicapped person to be elected to the lower-house National Assembly, and was the leader of his Republican party's MPs until he joined Macron's government. 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.

France's new solidarity minister denies sex assault charges

After promising a fresh approach during his second term, French president Emmanuel Macron reshuffled his cabinet yesterday naming a few new ministers all in a bit to create a fresh momentum ahead of parliamentary elections next month.

France: Emmanuel Macron reshuffles cabinet ahead of parliamentary elections

The Brexit-supporting&nbsp;father&nbsp;of British Prime Minister&nbsp;Boris&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;has acquired&nbsp;French&nbsp;citizenship after making an application last year, a&nbsp;French&nbsp;justice ministry source told AFP on Thursday.

A Conservative who once worked for the European Commission in Brussels,&nbsp;Stanley&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;opposed Brexit at first but swung behind the EU departure project following 2016's narrow referendum vote that was championed by his son.

The elder&nbsp;Johnson's ties to France are through his&nbsp;French&nbsp;mother, and he speaks the language fluently.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/partygate-uk-pm-boris-johnson-to-not-receive-further-fines-as-met-finishes-probe-480539">‘Partygate’: UK PM Boris Johnson to not receive further fines as Met finishes probe</a>

The 81-year-old filed his citizenship application at the&nbsp;French&nbsp;consulate in London in November last year, with a six-month deadline for the justice ministry to object elapsing on Wednesday.

"Based on the facts in his application, and without a refusal by the justice minister, Mr&nbsp;Stanley&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;acquired&nbsp;French&nbsp;nationality on May 18 2022," the ministry told AFP.

"This decision concerns only Mr&nbsp;Stanley&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;and does not extend to his descendants," it added.

"I'll always be European, that's for sure,"&nbsp;Stanley&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;told RTL radio in&nbsp;French&nbsp;in a December 2020 interview.

He had come under fire at home for his plans, announced at the same time most Britons were losing the right to travel freely across the European Union as a post-Brexit "transition period" ended.

Watch |&nbsp;UK PM Boris Johnson urges for change in Brexit rules, calls Northern Ireland protocol 'outdated'

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I'm&nbsp;French!

"It's not a question of becoming&nbsp;French. If I understand correctly I am&nbsp;French! My mother was born in France, her mother was completely&nbsp;French&nbsp;as was her grandfather,"&nbsp;Stanley&nbsp;said.

"For me it's a question of obtaining what I already have and I am very happy about that," he added.

French&nbsp;law normally prevents children of its citizens from claiming nationality if their family has been abroad for more than 50 years without making use of their rights.

But their applications can still be considered if they can prove "concrete ties of a cultural, professional, economic or family nature" with France, a clause&nbsp;Stanley&nbsp;invoked in his application.

Around 3,100 British people acquired&nbsp;French&nbsp;nationality in 2020, according to the latest figures available from EU statistics agency Eurostat, making France the second most popular choice for acquiring European citizenship, after Germany.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prime-minister-boris-johnson-under-fire-as-uk-inflation-rockets-to-40-year-high-480267">Prime Minister Boris Johnson under fire as UK inflation rockets to 40-year high</a>

Stanley&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;has become a public figure in Britain following his son's political rise, appearing on a celebrity reality TV show in 2017 and appearing regularly in the media.

His ex-wife Charlotte Fawcett,&nbsp;Boris's mother told a biographer recently that&nbsp;Stanley&nbsp;had beaten her many times, breaking her nose on one occasion.

Last year two women, a Conservative MP and a journalist, accused him of groping or touching them inappropriately.

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The Brexit-supporting father of British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has acquired French citizenship after making an application last year, a French justice ministry source told AFP on Thursday.

The Brexit-supporting father of British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has acquired French citizenship after making an application last year, a French justice ministry source told AFP on Thursday. A Conservative who once worked for the European Commission in Brussels, Stanley Johnson opposed Brexit at first but swung behind the EU departure project following 2016's narrow referendum vote that was championed by his son. The elder Johnson's ties to France are through his French mother, and he speaks the language fluently. Also read | ‘Partygate’: UK PM Boris Johnson to not receive further fines as Met finishes probe The 81-year-old filed his citizenship application at the French consulate in London in November last year, with a six-month deadline for the justice ministry to object elapsing on Wednesday. "Based on the facts in his application, and without a refusal by the justice minister, Mr Stanley Johnson acquired French nationality on May 18 2022," the ministry told AFP. "This decision concerns only Mr Stanley Johnson and does not extend to his descendants," it added. "I'll always be European, that's for sure," Stanley Johnson told RTL radio in French in a December 2020 interview. He had come under fire at home for his plans, announced at the same time most Britons were losing the right to travel freely across the European Union as a post-Brexit "transition period" ended. Watch | UK PM Boris Johnson urges for change in Brexit rules, calls Northern Ireland protocol 'outdated' I'm French! "It's not a question of becoming French. If I understand correctly I am French! My mother was born in France, her mother was completely French as was her grandfather," Stanley said. "For me it's a question of obtaining what I already have and I am very happy about that," he added. French law normally prevents children of its citizens from claiming nationality if their family has been abroad for more than 50 years without making use of their rights. But their applications can still be considered if they can prove "concrete ties of a cultural, professional, economic or family nature" with France, a clause Stanley invoked in his application. Around 3,100 British people acquired French nationality in 2020, according to the latest figures available from EU statistics agency Eurostat, making France the second most popular choice for acquiring European citizenship, after Germany. Also read | Prime Minister Boris Johnson under fire as UK inflation rockets to 40-year high Stanley Johnson has become a public figure in Britain following his son's political rise, appearing on a celebrity reality TV show in 2017 and appearing regularly in the media. His ex-wife Charlotte Fawcett, Boris's mother told a biographer recently that Stanley had beaten her many times, breaking her nose on one occasion. Last year two women, a Conservative MP and a journalist, accused him of groping or touching them inappropriately. 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.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's pro-Brexit father Stanley becomes French

The mercury is rising in France's Lyon City and the environmental experts are saying that the rising temperature is a cause for concern. The observatory experts who monitor the air quality in the region claim that the soaring temperatures have affected the air which in turn has increased the ozone concentration in the region

Rising temperatures in France's Lyon city worry air quality observers

Emmanuel Macron's government is set to challenge a city council's decision to permit burkinis in swimming pools. Can Macron strike a balance between secularism and religious expression? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: France mulls banning the Burkini

Emmanuel Macron re-election as the President of France is being seen as a victory of French luxury fashion. Brands like Louis Vuitton and Balmain were cheering for Macron, they say Macron is good for their business. How? Palki Sharma Upadhyay brings you a report.

Gravitas: Is Macron's victory a win for French high-end fashion?

The French city of Grenoble authorised the wearing of the "burkini" by Muslim women in state-run swimming pools, reigniting one of France's most contentious debates on religious dress. French interior minister has now opposed the move, here's more!

French minister opposes Grenoble's Burkini rule, concerns over 'cherished' secularism

The French city of Grenoble authorised the wearing of the "burkini" by Muslim women in state-run swimming pools, reigniting one of France's most contentious debates on religious dress.

France: Grenoble approves wearing of Burkini in public swimming pools

To get your day started, here are some stories.

Following a long standoff with Russian forces, more than 260 Ukrainian soldiers were evacuated from a steel plant in the besieged city of Mariupol. Centrist politician Elisabeth Borne was appointed France's new prime minister on Monday, becoming only the second woman in history to hold the post. The Taliban have decided to completely dissolve five departments which were set up by the former government including Afghanistan’s human rights commission. A blast was reported in Karachi’s Kharadar area as police and rescue officials were dispatched to the site late on Monday evening.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-260-ukrainian-soldiers-evacuated-from-mariupol-steel-plant-479688">More than 260 Ukrainian soldiers evacuated from Mariupol steel plant</a>

<img alt="Mariupol" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="988e02f7-01d2-46bc-9c4e-cee85e38ff45" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/rrr_9.jpg" />

Ukraine confirmed that the evacuation mission was successful with 53 wounded personnel being taken to hospital in Novoazovsk for treatment and the remaining 211 moving to Olenivka.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-emmanuel-macron-names-elisabeth-borne-as-frances-new-prime-minister-479690">French President Emmanuel Macron names Elisabeth Borne as France's new prime minister</a>

<img alt="France PM" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="069969b1-8330-4429-9743-30e8abda91f1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/rrr_10.jpg" />

Borne, 61, the labour minister in French President Emmanuel Macron's previous government, succeeds Jean Castex, whose resignation on Monday was expected after Macron's re-election.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-dissolves-five-major-departments-including-afghanistans-human-rights-commission-479696">Taliban dissolves five major departments including Afghanistan’s human rights commission</a>

<img alt="Taliban" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4251a68c-aa13-428f-a3ef-24391892b6c0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/rrr_11.jpg" />

The main reason behind the decision was shown to the shortage of funds as the maintenance of the departments was deemed ‘unnecessary’ as the country faces a budget deficit of around $501million.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/blast-in-karachi-at-least-one-killed-10-injured-479671">Blast in Karachi; at least one killed, 10 injured</a>

<img alt="Karachi blast" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0b762559-e2bd-4642-91a7-43a7b829496c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/rrr_12.jpg" />

The explosion took place in the heavily populated area of the city known to be a business hub with traders dealing in goods, textiles and hardware.

WATCH |&nbsp;Captain Kidambi Srikanth speaks to WION on India's Thomas Cup triumph

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&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">WATCH |&nbsp;Lebanon Parliamentary Poll Results: Hezbollah group and allies are likely to suffer loses</div>

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To get your day started, here are some stories. Following a long standoff with Russian forces, more than 260 Ukrainian soldiers were evacuated from a steel plant in the besieged city of Mariupol.

To get your day started, here are some stories. Following a long standoff with Russian forces, more than 260 Ukrainian soldiers were evacuated from a steel plant in the besieged city of Mariupol. Centrist politician Elisabeth Borne was appointed France's new prime minister on Monday, becoming only the second woman in history to hold the post. The Taliban have decided to completely dissolve five departments which were set up by the former government including Afghanistan’s human rights commission. A blast was reported in Karachi’s Kharadar area as police and rescue officials were dispatched to the site late on Monday evening. More than 260 Ukrainian soldiers evacuated from Mariupol steel plant Ukraine confirmed that the evacuation mission was successful with 53 wounded personnel being taken to hospital in Novoazovsk for treatment and the remaining 211 moving to Olenivka. French President Emmanuel Macron names Elisabeth Borne as France's new prime minister Borne, 61, the labour minister in French President Emmanuel Macron's previous government, succeeds Jean Castex, whose resignation on Monday was expected after Macron's re-election. Taliban dissolves five major departments including Afghanistan’s human rights commission The main reason behind the decision was shown to the shortage of funds as the maintenance of the departments was deemed ‘unnecessary’ as the country faces a budget deficit of around $501million. Blast in Karachi; at least one killed, 10 injured The explosion took place in the heavily populated area of the city known to be a business hub with traders dealing in goods, textiles and hardware. WATCH | Captain Kidambi Srikanth speaks to WION on India's Thomas Cup triumph WATCH | Sweden, Finland's NATO bids hit a snag; 'Don't bother to come,' says Turkey WATCH | Lebanon Parliamentary Poll Results: Hezbollah group and allies are likely to suffer loses

Morning news brief: Ukrainian soldiers evacuated, new French PM announced, and more

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