France is understood to be considering to exit Mali, the country in which it sent troops to prevent jihadists from taking over. It faces tough choices over how to keep pursuing Islamist extremists without becoming bogged down in a potentially unwinnable war.

In past 10 days, five French soldiers have been killed in roadside bombs. This brought to 50 the number of troops killed across the Sahel since France launched a campaign to clear northern Mali of jihadists in January 2013

Latest victims included Sergeant Yvonne Huynh, the first female soldier killed since the French intervention began. 
Her death Saturday, claimed by a group linked to al-Qaeda, coincided with a massacre across the border in western Niger, where unidentified gunmen killed around 100 villagers in one of the region's worst atrocities.

Shifting public mood

In the past year, the French have killed the leader of the notorious al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb group, Abdelmalek Droukdel, as well as one of the military leaders of the al-Qaeda affiliated Group to Support Islam and Muslims (GSIM).

Anxious to avoid becoming mired in a long Afghan-style conflict, Paris is preparing to announce a withdrawal of the 600 additional troops it deployed to the Sahel last year.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-massive-rave-party-with-little-social-distancing-causes-concern-353915">France: Massive rave party with little social distancing causes concern</a> 
 
Defence sources have told AFP that President Emmanuel Macron would like to go further in reducing the number of French troops in the Sahel region before the next presidential election in April/May 2022.

"Up until now the French have not really questioned France's role in the Sahel. But you have to be very careful. Public opinion can change very quickly," a government source told AFP.

Buying time

In a sign that the Sahel mission could become a domestic political football, some opposition politicians have already begun to question the wisdom of staying the course.

"War in Mali: for how much longer?" the hard-left France Unbowed party queried on Monday.

"The more we help Mali the more it collapses," said Marc-Antoine Perouse de Montclos of France's Institute of Development Research (IRD).

(With AFP inputs)

France is understood to be considering to exit Mali, the country in which it sent troops to prevent jihadists from taking over. It faces tough choices over how to keep pursuing Islamist extremists without becoming bogged down in a potentially unwinnable war.

France is understood to be considering to exit Mali, the country in which it sent troops to prevent jihadists from taking over. It faces tough choices over how to keep pursuing Islamist extremists without becoming bogged down in a potentially unwinnable war. In past 10 days, five French soldiers have been killed in roadside bombs. This brought to 50 the number of troops killed across the Sahel since France launched a campaign to clear northern Mali of jihadists in January 2013 Latest victims included Sergeant Yvonne Huynh, the first female soldier killed since the French intervention began. Her death Saturday, claimed by a group linked to al-Qaeda, coincided with a massacre across the border in western Niger, where unidentified gunmen killed around 100 villagers in one of the region's worst atrocities. Shifting public mood In the past year, the French have killed the leader of the notorious al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb group, Abdelmalek Droukdel, as well as one of the military leaders of the al-Qaeda affiliated Group to Support Islam and Muslims (GSIM). Anxious to avoid becoming mired in a long Afghan-style conflict, Paris is preparing to announce a withdrawal of the 600 additional troops it deployed to the Sahel last year. Also Read | France: Massive rave party with little social distancing causes concern Defence sources have told AFP that President Emmanuel Macron would like to go further in reducing the number of French troops in the Sahel region before the next presidential election in April/May 2022. "Up until now the French have not really questioned France's role in the Sahel. But you have to be very careful. Public opinion can change very quickly," a government source told AFP. Buying time In a sign that the Sahel mission could become a domestic political football, some opposition politicians have already begun to question the wisdom of staying the course. "War in Mali: for how much longer?" the hard-left France Unbowed party queried on Monday. "The more we help Mali the more it collapses," said Marc-Antoine Perouse de Montclos of France's Institute of Development Research (IRD). (With AFP inputs)

France seeks exit strategy from Mali after eight-year campaign

It has been a violent and bloody start to the New Year in Mali as on January 2&nbsp;two French soldiers were killed in Mali after an explosive device hit their vehicle. Just days before that&nbsp;on December 29, three French soldiers had been killed in a similar fashion.

Al-Qaeda linked groups claimed responsibility for both the attacks. The deaths of the French soldiers have sparked an outpouring of anger back home in France.

Why is the French military present in Mali at all?&nbsp;

The Sahel region is a vast area of inhospitable desert with porous borders, semi-arid land and jihadist attacks.

Geographically, it comprises Senegal from the west to parts of Mauritania, Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali and Niger. In recent years, the Sahel has been in the global spotlight for religious terrorism, arms and drug trafficking and even famine.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bomb-kills-two-french-soldiers-in-mali-354112">Bomb kills two French soldiers in Mali</a>

Since 2012, Mali has faced a series of violent conflicts. The French intervened and dislodged jihadist groups from Mali's cities but could not manage to eliminate them.

The French intervention was part of "Operation Barkhane". Under this operation, France has deployed around 5,000 troops to the Sahel region who are&nbsp;spread out between Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania and Niger.&nbsp;They engage in everything from combat patrols to intelligence gathering.

In 2017, they launched the G5 Sahel joint counter-terrorism force. Its mandate is to combat terrorism and organised crime in the Sahel area. It is France's largest overseas operation, with a budget of nearly 600 million euros per year. France maintains that Barkhane’s priority is to kill top jihadist leaders. However,&nbsp;in the last seven years, at least 50 soldiers have been killed and France's defence minister has conceded that security conditions in the area remain difficult.

Terrorist groups resort to guerrilla warfare and with five French soldiers killed within a span of a week,&nbsp;France is reconsidering its role in the region. It does not help that the deaths have sparked outrage in France.

"It was an explosive device with a vehicle that should no longer be used in the french army, but which is still in use, and the last deaths in recent times have been because of these vehicles, it's a bit of a pity, we have a bit of a feeling that our leaders are not doing what is necessary to change this," a student, former soldier in Mali said.

However, France has maintained that the Barkhane forces have achieved major military success and neutralised several senior members of the Al-Qaeda and affiliated terror groups.

Paris says it will reconsider its military strategy in the Sahel region and is likely to reduce military deployment. The final decision will be made at the next joint summit of the G5 Sahel countries in February.

Lack of funds and training have left the G5 countries largely dependent on France. It's a catch 22 situation — if France pulls out, the fragile peace in the Sahel area might collapse. However,&nbsp;if France stays, it may be stuck in a never-ending war.

It has been a violent and bloody start to the New Year in Mali as on January 2 two French soldiers were killed in Mali after an explosive device hit their vehicle.

It has been a violent and bloody start to the New Year in Mali as on January 2 two French soldiers were killed in Mali after an explosive device hit their vehicle. Just days before that on December 29, three French soldiers had been killed in a similar fashion. Al-Qaeda linked groups claimed responsibility for both the attacks. The deaths of the French soldiers have sparked an outpouring of anger back home in France. Why is the French military present in Mali at all? The Sahel region is a vast area of inhospitable desert with porous borders, semi-arid land and jihadist attacks. Geographically, it comprises Senegal from the west to parts of Mauritania, Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali and Niger. In recent years, the Sahel has been in the global spotlight for religious terrorism, arms and drug trafficking and even famine. Also read| Bomb kills two French soldiers in Mali Since 2012, Mali has faced a series of violent conflicts. The French intervened and dislodged jihadist groups from Mali's cities but could not manage to eliminate them. The French intervention was part of "Operation Barkhane". Under this operation, France has deployed around 5,000 troops to the Sahel region who are spread out between Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania and Niger. They engage in everything from combat patrols to intelligence gathering. In 2017, they launched the G5 Sahel joint counter-terrorism force. Its mandate is to combat terrorism and organised crime in the Sahel area. It is France's largest overseas operation, with a budget of nearly 600 million euros per year. France maintains that Barkhane’s priority is to kill top jihadist leaders. However, in the last seven years, at least 50 soldiers have been killed and France's defence minister has conceded that security conditions in the area remain difficult. Terrorist groups resort to guerrilla warfare and with five French soldiers killed within a span of a week, France is reconsidering its role in the region. It does not help that the deaths have sparked outrage in France. "It was an explosive device with a vehicle that should no longer be used in the french army, but which is still in use, and the last deaths in recent times have been because of these vehicles, it's a bit of a pity, we have a bit of a feeling that our leaders are not doing what is necessary to change this," a student, former soldier in Mali said. However, France has maintained that the Barkhane forces have achieved major military success and neutralised several senior members of the Al-Qaeda and affiliated terror groups. Paris says it will reconsider its military strategy in the Sahel region and is likely to reduce military deployment. The final decision will be made at the next joint summit of the G5 Sahel countries in February. Lack of funds and training have left the G5 countries largely dependent on France. It's a catch 22 situation — if France pulls out, the fragile peace in the Sahel area might collapse. However, if France stays, it may be stuck in a never-ending war.

French troops face grim reality in Mali

One of France's most prominent political commentators is facing a criminal investigation after being accused of the sexual abuse of his stepson, in the latest taboo-breaking scandal to rock the French intellectual elite.

Olivier Duhamel, 70, who has described the incest allegations as "personal attacks", is accused in a new book, written by his stepdaughter Camille Kouchner, of abusing her twin brother when they were aged 14.

Paris prosecutors said Tuesday they were opening an investigation into Duhamel over suspected rape and sexual abuse of a minor by a person in authority. He has stepped down from all his media and academic posts amid the furore.

The book "La Familia grande", which is due to be published on Thursday, has shocked French intellectual circles given Duhamel's prominence and close connections to the elite.

While many commentators have cast France as being slow to break longstanding taboos over the abuse of minors, this is not the first such controversy to make headlines over the last year.

Publisher Vanessa Springora, in a book published in January 2020, accused prize-winning writer Gabriel Matzneff of abusing her while she was a minor. Film star Adele Haenel in November 2019 accused director Christophe Ruggia of sexually harassing her when she was in her early teens.

Haenel and other French actresses also in February last year walked out of France's Cesar awards after filmmaker Roman Polanski -- wanted in the US for the statutory rape of a 13-year-old girl in 1977 –- won best director.

'I knew and said nothing'

Duhamel said on Twitter that he was resigning from all his posts following the allegations, including as head of the National Foundation of Political Sciences (FNSP), a body that oversees the hugely prestigious Sciences Po university.

"I am stepping down from my posts after being the target of personal attacks as I want to preserve the institutions in which I work," said Duhamel, who also until now presented a show on Europe 1 radio and is an analyst on LCI TV.

Camille Kouchner, now 45 and a lecturer, and her twin brother are the children of France's former foreign minister and co-founder of the Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) medical charity Bernard Kouchner and academic Evelyne Pisier, who died in 2017.

Kouchner and Pisier separated and she went on to marry Duhamel.

"I was 14 years old and let it go ahead. I was 14, I knew and said nothing," Camille Kouchner wrote in the book.

In the book, she names her brother only as "Victor" in order to protect his privacy. But Le Monde daily said he had read the text twice and was happy for his sister to speak on his behalf.

"I confirm that what my sister has written concerning the actions of Olivier Duhamel towards me is correct," "Victor" told Le Monde, without commenting further.

'Heavy secret'

In an interview with L'Obs magazine, Kouchner said the book revealed to what extent Duhamel's and Pisier's group of leftist intellectual friends, some of them household names in France, knew what was going on.

"Of course, I thought my book might seem obscene because of my family's fame. Then I thought to myself, this is exactly what needs to be done," she said.

In the book, she alleges a de-facto omerta had protected her stepfather from the truth being widely known.

"Very quickly, the people in power, Saint-Germain-des-Pres (the traditional hub in Paris for leftist thinkers) were aware. Many knew and most acted as if nothing had happened."

The book says that after his mother's death, "Victor" told his father Bernard Kouchner about what had happened. He pledged to confront Duhamel but was persuaded against doing so by Camille herself, on the grounds "Victor" wanted the family to move on.

In a statement released by his lawyer, Bernard Kouchner said that a "heavy secret that has been weighing on us for too long has happily been lifted. I applaud the courage of my daughter Camille".

One of France's most prominent political commentators is facing a criminal investigation after being accused of the sexual abuse of his stepson, in the latest taboo-breaking scandal to rock the French intellectual elite.

One of France's most prominent political commentators is facing a criminal investigation after being accused of the sexual abuse of his stepson, in the latest taboo-breaking scandal to rock the French intellectual elite. Olivier Duhamel, 70, who has described the incest allegations as "personal attacks", is accused in a new book, written by his stepdaughter Camille Kouchner, of abusing her twin brother when they were aged 14. Paris prosecutors said Tuesday they were opening an investigation into Duhamel over suspected rape and sexual abuse of a minor by a person in authority. He has stepped down from all his media and academic posts amid the furore. The book "La Familia grande", which is due to be published on Thursday, has shocked French intellectual circles given Duhamel's prominence and close connections to the elite. While many commentators have cast France as being slow to break longstanding taboos over the abuse of minors, this is not the first such controversy to make headlines over the last year. Publisher Vanessa Springora, in a book published in January 2020, accused prize-winning writer Gabriel Matzneff of abusing her while she was a minor. Film star Adele Haenel in November 2019 accused director Christophe Ruggia of sexually harassing her when she was in her early teens. Haenel and other French actresses also in February last year walked out of France's Cesar awards after filmmaker Roman Polanski -- wanted in the US for the statutory rape of a 13-year-old girl in 1977 –- won best director. 'I knew and said nothing' Duhamel said on Twitter that he was resigning from all his posts following the allegations, including as head of the National Foundation of Political Sciences (FNSP), a body that oversees the hugely prestigious Sciences Po university. "I am stepping down from my posts after being the target of personal attacks as I want to preserve the institutions in which I work," said Duhamel, who also until now presented a show on Europe 1 radio and is an analyst on LCI TV. Camille Kouchner, now 45 and a lecturer, and her twin brother are the children of France's former foreign minister and co-founder of the Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) medical charity Bernard Kouchner and academic Evelyne Pisier, who died in 2017. Kouchner and Pisier separated and she went on to marry Duhamel. "I was 14 years old and let it go ahead. I was 14, I knew and said nothing," Camille Kouchner wrote in the book. In the book, she names her brother only as "Victor" in order to protect his privacy. But Le Monde daily said he had read the text twice and was happy for his sister to speak on his behalf. "I confirm that what my sister has written concerning the actions of Olivier Duhamel towards me is correct," "Victor" told Le Monde, without commenting further. 'Heavy secret' In an interview with L'Obs magazine, Kouchner said the book revealed to what extent Duhamel's and Pisier's group of leftist intellectual friends, some of them household names in France, knew what was going on. "Of course, I thought my book might seem obscene because of my family's fame. Then I thought to myself, this is exactly what needs to be done," she said. In the book, she alleges a de-facto omerta had protected her stepfather from the truth being widely known. "Very quickly, the people in power, Saint-Germain-des-Pres (the traditional hub in Paris for leftist thinkers) were aware. Many knew and most acted as if nothing had happened." The book says that after his mother's death, "Victor" told his father Bernard Kouchner about what had happened. He pledged to confront Duhamel but was persuaded against doing so by Camille herself, on the grounds "Victor" wanted the family to move on. In a statement released by his lawyer, Bernard Kouchner said that a "heavy secret that has been weighing on us for too long has happily been lifted. I applaud the courage of my daughter Camille".

French political expert accused of incest in new taboo-breaking scandal

COVID vaccinations at elderly care homes in France continued their roll-out on Monday (January 4) as the government looked to accelerate progress in vaccinating medical staff in hospitals, its health minister said.

France gives care home staff COVID shots as it plays catch-up with neighbours

After a massive rave party in&nbsp;northwestern France, the Macron government has decided to impose night curfew in 15 northeastern and southeastern areas which will be starting from 6 pm, instead of 8 pm every night.

"We are taking a decision for 15 departments. In a week's time, we will assess the impact of this earlier curfew on these 15 departments, on the circulation of the virus elsewhere in the country," Gabriel Attal, a government spokesperson told local media.

He has also urged people to avoid wandering out during the day, warning that if the situation gets worse, a complete lockdown can also be placed. "Obviously if the situation were to deteriorate further in some regions, we would take the necessary decisions. The measures are incremental and can of course - in principle - go as far a lockdown," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-at-least-30-cars-torched-on-new-years-eve-by-rioters-on-violence-spree-353973">WATCH|</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-at-least-30-cars-torched-on-new-years-eve-by-rioters-on-violence-spree-353973/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In addition to this, the government has also decided to continue the ban on theatres, cinemas, concert and other entertainment venues. Restaurants and bars will also stay temporarily closed until further notice.

The decision has come after France identified cases of the new variant of coronavirus, which was first reported in the UK a few weeks ago.&nbsp;

This has also come as a direct result of several New Year parties which took place in the country, flouting all coronavirus guidelines and regulations imposed by the health experts and the government. The recent one was an&nbsp;illegal rave in Lieuron south of Rennes in Brittany which was attended by nearly 2,500 people for which the local police claims they tried to "prevent this event but faced fierce hostility from many partygoers".

The party took place after the&nbsp;Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin claimed to have deployed nearly 132,000 police officers on the streets of France for patrolling on New Year's Eve.

On Friday, France recorded&nbsp;19,348 new coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours. France has also suspended all incoming passengers from the UK after a fresh outbreak of the new variant of coronavirus.

After a massive rave party in northwestern France, the Macron government has decided to impose night curfew in 15 northeastern and southeastern areas which will be starting from 6 pm, instead of 8 pm every night.

After a massive rave party in northwestern France, the Macron government has decided to impose night curfew in 15 northeastern and southeastern areas which will be starting from 6 pm, instead of 8 pm every night. "We are taking a decision for 15 departments. In a week's time, we will assess the impact of this earlier curfew on these 15 departments, on the circulation of the virus elsewhere in the country," Gabriel Attal, a government spokesperson told local media. He has also urged people to avoid wandering out during the day, warning that if the situation gets worse, a complete lockdown can also be placed. "Obviously if the situation were to deteriorate further in some regions, we would take the necessary decisions. The measures are incremental and can of course - in principle - go as far a lockdown," he said. WATCH| × In addition to this, the government has also decided to continue the ban on theatres, cinemas, concert and other entertainment venues. Restaurants and bars will also stay temporarily closed until further notice. The decision has come after France identified cases of the new variant of coronavirus, which was first reported in the UK a few weeks ago. This has also come as a direct result of several New Year parties which took place in the country, flouting all coronavirus guidelines and regulations imposed by the health experts and the government. The recent one was an illegal rave in Lieuron south of Rennes in Brittany which was attended by nearly 2,500 people for which the local police claims they tried to "prevent this event but faced fierce hostility from many partygoers". The party took place after the Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin claimed to have deployed nearly 132,000 police officers on the streets of France for patrolling on New Year's Eve. On Friday, France recorded 19,348 new coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours. France has also suspended all incoming passengers from the UK after a fresh outbreak of the new variant of coronavirus.

After new year parties and violence, France imposes night curfew to contain COVID-19 cases

At least 30 cars were set on fire across Strasbourg, France after groups of vandals flouted a curfew order as New Year's Eve celebrations once again turned violent.

France: At least 30 cars torched on New Year's Eve by rioters on violence spree

A massive rave party taking place since the New Year's Eve near Rennes in France was finally shut down by several hundred French police officials on Saturday. The party was attended by about 2500 revellers from across France and even from abroad. The party had caused huge concerns since social distancing and other coronavirus measures went for a toss. Local police tried stopping the party on January 1 but were forced to wait for reinforcements as revellers clashed with the officials injuring some and damaged police cars.

French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said on Twitter that more than 1,200 party-goers had been issued with penalty notices as they left the site, adding that the event's organisers were being identified and would be prosecuted.

About 800 of the revellers were sanctioned for attending an illegal party, breaking curfew and not wearing masks, and the rest were mostly issued notices for using illegal drugs, Berthier said.

Prosecutors in Rennes have opened a probe into the illegal organisation of a musical event and violence against persons of authority, the prefecture said, while local health authorities urged party-goers to self-isolate for seven days.

France has highest number of COVID-19 cases in Western Europe. The country is stepping up coronavirus restriction imposing curfew in many states starting at 6 pm. The rave party had thus become a matter of concern as it had the potential of becoming a superspreader event.

In neighbouring Spain, police broke up a smaller warehouse rave near Barcelona that had also been going for more than 40 hours.

About 200 people attended the New Year's Eve rave in the village of Llinars del Valles, and dozens continued to party on Saturday - some refusing to leave and shouting abuse when police arrived at the scene.

The event's three organisers were arrested, Catalan's Mossos d'Esquadra police force said on Twitter, adding that the three and those who attended the party would be charged and faced fines of between 3,000 and 600,000 euros.

(With AFP inputs)

A massive rave party taking place since the New Year's Eve near Rennes in France was finally shut down by several hundred French police officials on Saturday. The party was attended by about 2500 revellers from across France and even from abroad.

A massive rave party taking place since the New Year's Eve near Rennes in France was finally shut down by several hundred French police officials on Saturday. The party was attended by about 2500 revellers from across France and even from abroad. The party had caused huge concerns since social distancing and other coronavirus measures went for a toss. Local police tried stopping the party on January 1 but were forced to wait for reinforcements as revellers clashed with the officials injuring some and damaged police cars. French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said on Twitter that more than 1,200 party-goers had been issued with penalty notices as they left the site, adding that the event's organisers were being identified and would be prosecuted. About 800 of the revellers were sanctioned for attending an illegal party, breaking curfew and not wearing masks, and the rest were mostly issued notices for using illegal drugs, Berthier said. Prosecutors in Rennes have opened a probe into the illegal organisation of a musical event and violence against persons of authority, the prefecture said, while local health authorities urged party-goers to self-isolate for seven days. France has highest number of COVID-19 cases in Western Europe. The country is stepping up coronavirus restriction imposing curfew in many states starting at 6 pm. The rave party had thus become a matter of concern as it had the potential of becoming a superspreader event. In neighbouring Spain, police broke up a smaller warehouse rave near Barcelona that had also been going for more than 40 hours. About 200 people attended the New Year's Eve rave in the village of Llinars del Valles, and dozens continued to party on Saturday - some refusing to leave and shouting abuse when police arrived at the scene. The event's three organisers were arrested, Catalan's Mossos d'Esquadra police force said on Twitter, adding that the three and those who attended the party would be charged and faced fines of between 3,000 and 600,000 euros. (With AFP inputs)

Massive rave party in France finally shut down by hundreds of police officials

France imposes night curfew in 15 regions to contain COVID-19 cases

A massive rave party in northwestern France that disregarded all coronavirus norms has sent alarm bells ringing in the country. The partygoers, about 2500 of them, violently clashed with police who unsuccessfully tried to prevent and stop the party. The party took place on New Year's Eve and went on beyond the nationwide curfew of 8 pm.

The revellers had set up the illegal rave in Lieuron south of Rennes in Brittany after skirmishes with police, said a statement from the local prefecture. Many were still on the site Friday as a sanitary cordon was thrown up around it.

Local police tried to "prevent this event but faced fierce hostility from many partygoers" who set one of their cars of fire and threw bottles and stones, it said.

Such mass gatherings are strictly prohibited across France in accordance with coronavirus restrictions. The attendees had come from across France and even from abroad.

Prosecutors have opened an investigation into the illegal organisation of a musical gathering and premeditated violence against persons in authority.&nbsp;

Vehicles registered from all over France were still parked at the site Friday and many revellers were present as techno music thudded away, an AFP journalist said.

'Little social distancing'

Participants interviewed by AFP said that the revellers had included partygoers from foreign countries, including Spain and Britain. 
One participant, who gave his name as Jo from the Alsace region of eastern France and refused to be identified further, said they had all met at &nbsp;a meeting point on Thursday evening in the parking lot of a shopping centre.&nbsp;

Then the convoy headed for Lieuron where the police tried to prevent them from passing, he said.

He acknowledged that "very few had respected social distancing" at the event, which was supposed only to end later on Saturday. 
French authorities have been particularly concerned about mass wildcat rave parties throughout the pandemic but New Year's night was a particular concern.

In the southern city of Marseille, security forces halted an illegal party grouping some 300 people, police said. Over 150 people were warned and the three suspected organisers have been arrested.

(With AFP inputs)

A massive rave party in northwestern France that disregarded all coronavirus norms has sent alarm bells ringing in the country. The partygoers, about 2500 of them, violently clashed with police who unsuccessfully tried to prevent and stop the party.

A massive rave party in northwestern France that disregarded all coronavirus norms has sent alarm bells ringing in the country. The partygoers, about 2500 of them, violently clashed with police who unsuccessfully tried to prevent and stop the party. The party took place on New Year's Eve and went on beyond the nationwide curfew of 8 pm. The revellers had set up the illegal rave in Lieuron south of Rennes in Brittany after skirmishes with police, said a statement from the local prefecture. Many were still on the site Friday as a sanitary cordon was thrown up around it. Local police tried to "prevent this event but faced fierce hostility from many partygoers" who set one of their cars of fire and threw bottles and stones, it said. Such mass gatherings are strictly prohibited across France in accordance with coronavirus restrictions. The attendees had come from across France and even from abroad. Prosecutors have opened an investigation into the illegal organisation of a musical gathering and premeditated violence against persons in authority. Vehicles registered from all over France were still parked at the site Friday and many revellers were present as techno music thudded away, an AFP journalist said. 'Little social distancing' Participants interviewed by AFP said that the revellers had included partygoers from foreign countries, including Spain and Britain. One participant, who gave his name as Jo from the Alsace region of eastern France and refused to be identified further, said they had all met at a meeting point on Thursday evening in the parking lot of a shopping centre. Then the convoy headed for Lieuron where the police tried to prevent them from passing, he said. He acknowledged that "very few had respected social distancing" at the event, which was supposed only to end later on Saturday. French authorities have been particularly concerned about mass wildcat rave parties throughout the pandemic but New Year's night was a particular concern. In the southern city of Marseille, security forces halted an illegal party grouping some 300 people, police said. Over 150 people were warned and the three suspected organisers have been arrested. (With AFP inputs)

France: Massive rave party with little social distancing causes concern

UK PM Boris Johnson's father Stanley confirmed on Thursday that he was seeking French citizenship just when free movement of Britons was coming to an end thanks to Brexit deal delivered by his own son. Speaking to France's RTL radio, he asserted that he was 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.

"For me it's a question of obtaining what I already have and I am very happy about that," the 80-year-old added.

Boris Johnson's father was among the first civil servants appointed to Brussells after Britain joined the European Union in 1973. He initially campaigned against UK leaving the European Union but changed his mind after Britain voted to leave EU in 2016 vote.
<img alt="Boris Johnson father" data-caption="UK PM Boris Johnson's father Stanley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6c92b3e4-86cb-4d94-bc06-6c6fac1d3dbc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1L9385.jpg" />
"I will always be European, that's for sure," he told RTL. &nbsp;

"You can't tell the English: you're not European. Europe is more than the single market, it's more than the European Union."

"That said, to have a link like that with the EU is important," he said, apparently referring to an EU passport.

His daughter Rachel had published a book in March and had already revealed his plans of seeking French citizenship.

She wrote that her grandmother was born in Versailles and said that if her father received French citizenship she too would like to become French.

(With AFP inputs)

UK PM Boris Johnson's father Stanley confirmed on Thursday that he was seeking French citizenship just when free movement of Britons was coming to an end thanks to Brexit deal delivered by his own son.

UK PM Boris Johnson's father Stanley confirmed on Thursday that he was seeking French citizenship just when free movement of Britons was coming to an end thanks to Brexit deal delivered by his own son. Speaking to France's RTL radio, he asserted that he was 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. "For me it's a question of obtaining what I already have and I am very happy about that," the 80-year-old added. Boris Johnson's father was among the first civil servants appointed to Brussells after Britain joined the European Union in 1973. He initially campaigned against UK leaving the European Union but changed his mind after Britain voted to leave EU in 2016 vote. "I will always be European, that's for sure," he told RTL. "You can't tell the English: you're not European. Europe is more than the single market, it's more than the European Union." "That said, to have a link like that with the EU is important," he said, apparently referring to an EU passport. His daughter Rachel had published a book in March and had already revealed his plans of seeking French citizenship. She wrote that her grandmother was born in Versailles and said that if her father received French citizenship she too would like to become French. (With AFP inputs)

'I am French', says UK PM Boris Johnson's father as he seeks France citizenship

U.S has escalated tariff war at the end of the year with its one time biggest trade ally European union amid an ongoing civil aircraft dispute between Washington and brussels. The U.S has increased tariffs on certain EU products including aircraft related parts and wine from France and Germany

U.S. hikes tariffs amid EU disputes, slaps tariffs on French ,German products as well

Thousands were left without electricity and planes were delayed or forced to re-route Sunday as storm Bella caused torrential rain and heavy winds in much of northern France.

Some 12,000 households suffered power cuts in Brittany and Normandy in northern France and up to 6,000 around the Calais region.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-begins-vaccine-rollout-as-new-virus-strain-spreads-fears-352641">Europe begins vaccine rollout as new virus strain spreads fears</a>

Over a third of flights from France's main airport of Charles de Gaulle in northern Paris suffered delays of an average of 50 minutes due to the storm, the airport operator said.

Three flights heading to the airport were re-routed to Paris Orly airport in the south of Paris while an Aeroflot flight landed in Amsterdam and a plane heading from Luxemburg turned back.

A top flight rugby clash between Pau and Stade Francais scheduled for the afternoon was delayed by three hours after the storm prevented the Paris-based team from taking off.

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-could-impose-another-lockdown-as-coronavirus-cases-rise-352692">&nbsp;France could impose another lockdown as coronavirus cases rise</a>

The winds and rains were due to abate in some areas by the late afternoon but heavy show was forecast on higher ground in the south of the country heading into Monday.

Similar troubles were seen in the south of England where winds reaching 170 kilometres (105 miles) an hour were recorded on the Isle of Wight overnight Saturday to Sunday.&nbsp;

Meanwhile some 20,000 households in Wales had their electricity cut while delays were also seen on railways due to trees falling on the line.

Thousands were left without electricity and planes were delayed or forced to re-route Sunday as storm Bella caused torrential rain and heavy winds in much of northern France.

Thousands were left without electricity and planes were delayed or forced to re-route Sunday as storm Bella caused torrential rain and heavy winds in much of northern France. Some 12,000 households suffered power cuts in Brittany and Normandy in northern France and up to 6,000 around the Calais region. Also read| Europe begins vaccine rollout as new virus strain spreads fears Over a third of flights from France's main airport of Charles de Gaulle in northern Paris suffered delays of an average of 50 minutes due to the storm, the airport operator said. Three flights heading to the airport were re-routed to Paris Orly airport in the south of Paris while an Aeroflot flight landed in Amsterdam and a plane heading from Luxemburg turned back. A top flight rugby clash between Pau and Stade Francais scheduled for the afternoon was delayed by three hours after the storm prevented the Paris-based team from taking off. Also read| France could impose another lockdown as coronavirus cases rise The winds and rains were due to abate in some areas by the late afternoon but heavy show was forecast on higher ground in the south of the country heading into Monday. Similar troubles were seen in the south of England where winds reaching 170 kilometres (105 miles) an hour were recorded on the Isle of Wight overnight Saturday to Sunday. Meanwhile some 20,000 households in Wales had their electricity cut while delays were also seen on railways due to trees falling on the line.

Thousands without power, planes delayed as storm Bella lashes France

The Pfizer- Vaccine has started to arrive in Europe there is still reeling from the latest surge in the number of COVID-19 infections. Now all 27 European union nations are expected to begin mass immunization plan. Through a special message EU chief Ursula von der Leyen announced all EU nations that receive the very first dozes of COVID-19 vaccine. France Received First Shipment Of Nearly 19,500 Pfizer Vaccine

All European union nations to start vaccination process together

France&nbsp;has confirmed first case of new coronavirus variant on its soil. The variant, which recently emerged in Britain is considered by experts to be more contagious. The virus has been found in a French citizen living in Britain who arrived from London on December 19. The citizen is asymptomatic and is self-isolating at home in Tours in central France.

Health authorities have carried out contact-tracing for the health professionals taking care of the patient, the ministry said in a statement.

Any of their contacts that were seen as vulnerable would similarly be isolated, it said.&nbsp;

In addition to this first case, several other positive samples that "may suggest the VOC 202012/01 variant are being sequenced" by the specialist laboratories of the national Pasteur Institute, the statement added.

Fears arising from the new variant of the virus have prompted more than 50 countries to impose travel restrictions on UK.

Borders closed&nbsp;

On Monday, France's health minister Olivier Veran had admitted that it was possible the newly discovered strain was already in the country.&nbsp;

Italian authorities have detected the new strain in a patient in Rome, while the World Health Organization reported that nine cases have been detected in Denmark and one each in the Netherlands and Australia.

Following the snap 48-hour ban this week, France had reopened its borders to the UK -- partly to allow French citizens to return home, as well as to relieve the massive build-up of freight goods -- but had instituted a testing policy.

(With AFP inputs)

France has confirmed first case of new coronavirus variant on its soil. The variant, which recently emerged in Britain is considered by experts to be more contagious.

France has confirmed first case of new coronavirus variant on its soil. The variant, which recently emerged in Britain is considered by experts to be more contagious. The virus has been found in a French citizen living in Britain who arrived from London on December 19. The citizen is asymptomatic and is self-isolating at home in Tours in central France. Health authorities have carried out contact-tracing for the health professionals taking care of the patient, the ministry said in a statement. Any of their contacts that were seen as vulnerable would similarly be isolated, it said. In addition to this first case, several other positive samples that "may suggest the VOC 202012/01 variant are being sequenced" by the specialist laboratories of the national Pasteur Institute, the statement added. Fears arising from the new variant of the virus have prompted more than 50 countries to impose travel restrictions on UK. Borders closed On Monday, France's health minister Olivier Veran had admitted that it was possible the newly discovered strain was already in the country. Italian authorities have detected the new strain in a patient in Rome, while the World Health Organization reported that nine cases have been detected in Denmark and one each in the Netherlands and Australia. Following the snap 48-hour ban this week, France had reopened its borders to the UK -- partly to allow French citizens to return home, as well as to relieve the massive build-up of freight goods -- but had instituted a testing policy. (With AFP inputs)

New coronavirus: France confirms first case on its soil

The world is paying the price of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus </a>pandemic with massive loss of lives and livelihoods.&nbsp;

China, the exporter of the virus should be paying the bill of this havoc.

In a first of its kind, now people of Italy are suing their government for failing to protect the lives of its citizens.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/families-of-coronavirus-victims-sue-italy-for-100-million-euros-351928">Families of coronavirus victims sue Italy for 100 million euros</a>

Over 70,000 people have died from the novel coronavirus in Italy and families demand justice and accountability,&nbsp;

Italians have sued the nation's top leaders and are demanding $122 million in compensation.&nbsp;

A group of 500 families have filed civil lawsuits against three Italian leaders: Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, Health Minister Roberto Speranza and the President of the Lombardy region Attilio Fontana.&nbsp;

All three leaders have been accused of criminal negligence and the plaintiffs say the authorities had no plan in place, either nationally or locally.&nbsp;

It said Italy's pandemic plan dated back to 2006, but was never tested.&nbsp;

Italy must answer these valid questions and in fact, the rest of the governments should also do the same.

If the nations cannot hold China accountable, they must answer their citizens on how they themselves handled the outbreak.&nbsp;

On a closer look, one gets to know that Italy's death toll was higher as the country comprised several in the elderly age group, who are more susceptible to the virus.&nbsp;

Also, Lombardy was hit the hardest because it is the nation's most populated region.&nbsp;

The Italian government could have done better by imposing lockdown measures, but why did lockdown protesters derail government measures?

To cushion a disaster, the government and people need to work collectively.&nbsp;

<h2>An experiment in France</h2>

Italy's neighbour France is also badly hit and now the country aims to ban unvaccinated people from public transport.&nbsp;

A recent opinion poll found that 55 per cent of the French population said they will not get inoculated despite no solid foundation of scepticism.&nbsp;

On Monday, Singapore Airlines became the first country to start a digital health verification process for passengers.&nbsp;

This is the future, if citizens can sue governments, administrations can mandate health-related regulations.&nbsp;

Covid-19 has jolted Europe and the new strain can make the situation scarier.&nbsp;

If the continent wants to save its population, solid measures need to be taken which will require citizen cooperation.&nbsp;

The world is paying the price of coronavirus pandemic with massive loss of lives and livelihoods. China, the exporter of the virus should be paying the bill of this havoc.

The world is paying the price of coronavirus pandemic with massive loss of lives and livelihoods. China, the exporter of the virus should be paying the bill of this havoc. In a first of its kind, now people of Italy are suing their government for failing to protect the lives of its citizens. Also read | Families of coronavirus victims sue Italy for 100 million euros Over 70,000 people have died from the novel coronavirus in Italy and families demand justice and accountability, Italians have sued the nation's top leaders and are demanding $122 million in compensation. A group of 500 families have filed civil lawsuits against three Italian leaders: Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, Health Minister Roberto Speranza and the President of the Lombardy region Attilio Fontana. All three leaders have been accused of criminal negligence and the plaintiffs say the authorities had no plan in place, either nationally or locally. It said Italy's pandemic plan dated back to 2006, but was never tested. Italy must answer these valid questions and in fact, the rest of the governments should also do the same. If the nations cannot hold China accountable, they must answer their citizens on how they themselves handled the outbreak. On a closer look, one gets to know that Italy's death toll was higher as the country comprised several in the elderly age group, who are more susceptible to the virus. Also, Lombardy was hit the hardest because it is the nation's most populated region. The Italian government could have done better by imposing lockdown measures, but why did lockdown protesters derail government measures? To cushion a disaster, the government and people need to work collectively. An experiment in France Italy's neighbour France is also badly hit and now the country aims to ban unvaccinated people from public transport. A recent opinion poll found that 55 per cent of the French population said they will not get inoculated despite no solid foundation of scepticism. On Monday, Singapore Airlines became the first country to start a digital health verification process for passengers. This is the future, if citizens can sue governments, administrations can mandate health-related regulations. Covid-19 has jolted Europe and the new strain can make the situation scarier. If the continent wants to save its population, solid measures need to be taken which will require citizen cooperation.

Italians are suing their governments, but are citizens acting responsibly?

France on Thursday announced measures to support fishermen after European Union and UK reached a post-Brexit trade agreement. The aid includes up to 30,000 euros in individual aid. UK And EU haggled hard on access to Britain's rich fishing waters.

"Fishermen and wholesalers will be able to benefit from a flat-rate aid of up to 30,000 euros depending on their dependence on products caught in British waters," the French fisheries ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

"The government will soon present its complete plan to support French fishermen," Minister Annick Girardin said.

The aid plan provides compensation for a limited period for a part of turnover losses that companies dependent on British waters would face.

Other measures include investment aid under a recovery plan and "fleet exit plan" will be available for vessels dependent on British waters that want to stop activity.

Britain had insisted it wanted to take back full control of its waters while EU coastal states sought guarantees their fleets could keep fishing in UK waters.&nbsp;

The two sides reached a compromise that will see European boats gradually relinquish 25 percent of their current quotas during a five-and-a-half year transition period.&nbsp;

After that there will be annual negotiations on the amount of fish EU vessels can take from British waters -- and if Brussels is not satisfied it can impose economic measures against the UK.

(With AFP inputs)

France on Thursday announced measures to support fishermen after European Union and UK reached a post-Brexit trade agreement. The aid includes up to 30,000 euros in individual aid.

France on Thursday announced measures to support fishermen after European Union and UK reached a post-Brexit trade agreement. The aid includes up to 30,000 euros in individual aid. UK And EU haggled hard on access to Britain's rich fishing waters. "Fishermen and wholesalers will be able to benefit from a flat-rate aid of up to 30,000 euros depending on their dependence on products caught in British waters," the French fisheries ministry said in a statement. "The government will soon present its complete plan to support French fishermen," Minister Annick Girardin said. The aid plan provides compensation for a limited period for a part of turnover losses that companies dependent on British waters would face. Other measures include investment aid under a recovery plan and "fleet exit plan" will be available for vessels dependent on British waters that want to stop activity. Britain had insisted it wanted to take back full control of its waters while EU coastal states sought guarantees their fleets could keep fishing in UK waters. The two sides reached a compromise that will see European boats gradually relinquish 25 percent of their current quotas during a five-and-a-half year transition period. After that there will be annual negotiations on the amount of fish EU vessels can take from British waters -- and if Brussels is not satisfied it can impose economic measures against the UK. (With AFP inputs)

After Brexit, France offers aid to fishermen

As Christmas nears, Parisians said their spirits were lifted by festive lights and street decorations on Tuesday (December 22) despite the coronavirus pandemic.

Christmas in Paris: City of Light - locals feel festive despite COVID-19

After a snap 48-hour ban to keep new variant of coronavirus from spreading, France and Britain are set to reopen cross-border travel on Wednesday. The blanket ban on travel and transport has threatened supply chains in UK. British PM Boris Johnson faced growing pressure to resolve the earlier deadlock as dramatic images of hundreds of lorries in Dover did rounds.

Late Tuesday, UK Transport Secretary Grant Shapps announced Britain and France had settled on a protocol that "will see the French border reopen to those travelling for urgent reasons, provided they have a certified negative COVID test."

However, he urged lorry drivers not to head to the southern county of Kent in expectations of boarding a ferry or train.

French Transport Minister Jean-Baptiste Djebarri also confirmed that air travel, boats and Eurostar trains would "resume service as of tomorrow morning".

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-travel-bans-should-be-discontinued-to-avoid-supply-chain-disruptions-eu-351653">UK travel bans should be discontinued to avoid supply chain disruptions: EU</a>

"French nationals, people living in France and those with a legitimate reason will have to be carrying a negative test," he said.

Despite the breakthrough in talks congestion around the key southern port of Dover remains unlikely to recede in the short term.

Dover authorities said late on Tuesday (local time) that the transit hub would reopen from midnight but only for travellers with negative result.

The measures imposed on hauliers have caused concern over shortages of some fresh food products over a Christmas period already marred by strict coronavirus restrictions.

More than 2,800 lorries remain stranded in the southern English county of Kent, unable to make the crossing to France, with drivers having spent a second night sleeping in their cabs.

As night fell on Tuesday, drivers of some 800 trucks parked at a nearby disused airport sounded their horns for more than half an hour in protest.

Despite the fresh agreement -- which will be reviewed on December 31 -- it is unclear when traffic will begin moving again.

(With AFP inputs)

After a snap 48-hour ban to keep new variant of coronavirus from spreading, France and Britain are set to reopen cross-border travel on Wednesday. The blanket ban on travel and transport has threatened supply chains in UK.

After a snap 48-hour ban to keep new variant of coronavirus from spreading, France and Britain are set to reopen cross-border travel on Wednesday. The blanket ban on travel and transport has threatened supply chains in UK. British PM Boris Johnson faced growing pressure to resolve the earlier deadlock as dramatic images of hundreds of lorries in Dover did rounds. Late Tuesday, UK Transport Secretary Grant Shapps announced Britain and France had settled on a protocol that "will see the French border reopen to those travelling for urgent reasons, provided they have a certified negative COVID test." However, he urged lorry drivers not to head to the southern county of Kent in expectations of boarding a ferry or train. French Transport Minister Jean-Baptiste Djebarri also confirmed that air travel, boats and Eurostar trains would "resume service as of tomorrow morning". Also Read | UK travel bans should be discontinued to avoid supply chain disruptions: EU "French nationals, people living in France and those with a legitimate reason will have to be carrying a negative test," he said. Despite the breakthrough in talks congestion around the key southern port of Dover remains unlikely to recede in the short term. Dover authorities said late on Tuesday (local time) that the transit hub would reopen from midnight but only for travellers with negative result. The measures imposed on hauliers have caused concern over shortages of some fresh food products over a Christmas period already marred by strict coronavirus restrictions. More than 2,800 lorries remain stranded in the southern English county of Kent, unable to make the crossing to France, with drivers having spent a second night sleeping in their cabs. As night fell on Tuesday, drivers of some 800 trucks parked at a nearby disused airport sounded their horns for more than half an hour in protest. Despite the fresh agreement -- which will be reviewed on December 31 -- it is unclear when traffic will begin moving again. (With AFP inputs)

New coronavirus fears: Britain-France transport ban eased

Three French police officers were shot dead and a fourth wounded when a man opened fire at a house in a remote village.

The man suspected of killing the police officers&nbsp;has been "discovered dead," Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin announced Wednesday.

In a Twitter post, Darmanin did not give further details of how the 48-year-old man died, but said he was heading to the scene near Saint-Just, a village south of the city of Clermont-Ferrand.

The mayor of the nearby French town of Saint-Just said police were called to a report of domestic violence in the village in central France, some 180 km (114 miles) west of the city of Lyon.

Mayor Francois Chautard said special forces were on the scene following the fatal shooting in the village, said media.

When police arrived a 48-year-old man starting shooting at them and then set fire to the house, according to media reports.

The woman, who was the reported victim of domestic violence, sought refuge on the roof of the house and was rescued safely by police.

Police approached the house shortly after midnight and were targetted by gunfire. A police operation was still underway in the village, said French television service BFMTV.

The gunman initially shot and killed one officer and wounded another, before setting fire to the house.

Two further officers, responding to the scene, were then fired on and killed, according to the Clermont-Ferrand prosecutor's office.

The gunman is said to be known to authorities for charges relating to child custody issues.

Firefighters are also on site attempting to control the blaze.

Three French police officers were shot dead and a fourth wounded when a man opened fire at a house in a remote village. The man suspected of killing the police officers has been "discovered dead," Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin announced Wednesday.

Three French police officers were shot dead and a fourth wounded when a man opened fire at a house in a remote village. The man suspected of killing the police officers has been "discovered dead," Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin announced Wednesday. In a Twitter post, Darmanin did not give further details of how the 48-year-old man died, but said he was heading to the scene near Saint-Just, a village south of the city of Clermont-Ferrand. The mayor of the nearby French town of Saint-Just said police were called to a report of domestic violence in the village in central France, some 180 km (114 miles) west of the city of Lyon. Mayor Francois Chautard said special forces were on the scene following the fatal shooting in the village, said media. When police arrived a 48-year-old man starting shooting at them and then set fire to the house, according to media reports. The woman, who was the reported victim of domestic violence, sought refuge on the roof of the house and was rescued safely by police. Police approached the house shortly after midnight and were targetted by gunfire. A police operation was still underway in the village, said French television service BFMTV. The gunman initially shot and killed one officer and wounded another, before setting fire to the house. Two further officers, responding to the scene, were then fired on and killed, according to the Clermont-Ferrand prosecutor's office. The gunman is said to be known to authorities for charges relating to child custody issues. Firefighters are also on site attempting to control the blaze.

Three police officials shot dead in central France; suspect found dead

Several European countries such as Belgium and Germany are imposing travel bans on all the incoming flights from the UK and South Africa to make sure the new variant does not get transmitted to their countries.

Scientific experts on new Coronavirus strain in Europe

After battling the second wave of the novel coronavirus, the French government has decided to reward their frontline workers in a way that speaks volumes and also helps the workers.

On Tuesday, the French government announced that the hundreds of immigrants&nbsp;who have been working tirelessly in France for the last few months to help the country battle the pandemic will be gifted French citizenship as a 'thank you'.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-macron-still-presenting-same-covid-19-symptoms-france-351022">President Macron still presenting same COVID-19 symptoms: France</a>

"Health professionals, cleaning ladies, childcare workers, checkout staff: They all proved their commitment to the nation, and it is now the turn of the republic to take a step towards them,"&nbsp;the interior ministry said on Tuesday.

The process for this started in September when the ministry invited all immigrant frontline and healthcare workers to apply for the fast-track naturalisation process.&nbsp;

After the announcement, nearly 3,000 people responded to the offer and 74 had already obtained citizenship while the nearly 693 were in the final stage of completing the process,&nbsp;the office of Marlene Schiappa, the junior minister for citizenship, said in a statement.

This 'thank you' gift was appreciated by many who feel this has not only given them an appreciation for their work but has also motivated them to do more for the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-depression-rate-among-youths-increased-due-to-covid-19-lockdowns-351048">WATCH|</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-depression-rate-among-youths-increased-due-to-covid-19-lockdowns-351048/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In addition to this, the ministry also urged the officials to&nbsp;reduce the residency period in cases of "great services rendered"&nbsp;that is required to obtain citizenship. As of now, the period is five years which will be reduced to two years.

The order has come at a time when France's President Emmanuel Macron is battling his personal fight against the novel coronavirus, but he claims to be "doing well".

After battling the second wave of the novel coronavirus, the French government has decided to reward their frontline workers in a way that speaks volumes and also helps the workers.

After battling the second wave of the novel coronavirus, the French government has decided to reward their frontline workers in a way that speaks volumes and also helps the workers. On Tuesday, the French government announced that the hundreds of immigrants who have been working tirelessly in France for the last few months to help the country battle the pandemic will be gifted French citizenship as a 'thank you'. Also read| President Macron still presenting same COVID-19 symptoms: France "Health professionals, cleaning ladies, childcare workers, checkout staff: They all proved their commitment to the nation, and it is now the turn of the republic to take a step towards them," the interior ministry said on Tuesday. The process for this started in September when the ministry invited all immigrant frontline and healthcare workers to apply for the fast-track naturalisation process. After the announcement, nearly 3,000 people responded to the offer and 74 had already obtained citizenship while the nearly 693 were in the final stage of completing the process, the office of Marlene Schiappa, the junior minister for citizenship, said in a statement. This 'thank you' gift was appreciated by many who feel this has not only given them an appreciation for their work but has also motivated them to do more for the country. WATCH| × In addition to this, the ministry also urged the officials to reduce the residency period in cases of "great services rendered" that is required to obtain citizenship. As of now, the period is five years which will be reduced to two years. The order has come at a time when France's President Emmanuel Macron is battling his personal fight against the novel coronavirus, but he claims to be "doing well".

France to reward COVID-19 frontline workers with citizenship

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in lockdowns all over the world, and they have come at a considerable cost to mental health. Restrictions have led to significant increase in symptoms of depression & anxiety among students of France. WION brings you a report.

France: Depression rate among youths increased due to COVID-19 lockdowns

France authorities have arrested four people linked to a September 25 meat cleaver attack in Paris, outside he former offices of the Charlie Hebdo weekly that wounded two people.

Paris: 4 linked to meat cleaver attack arrested

French authorities have charged and detained four Pakistanis suspected of links to a meat cleaver attack by a compatriot outside the former offices of the Charlie Hebdo weekly.

The attack had then wounded two people.

According to AFP, the four male suspects were in contact with the attacker. They are suspected of being aware of the attacker's plot and inciting him to carry it out.

Three of them were charged on Friday with taking part in a terrorist conspiracy and placed in pre-trial detention. The fourth had already been charged on Wednesday.

News of the charges comes two days after a Paris court convicted 13 accomplices of the jihadist gunmen who massacred Charlie Hebdo staff in January 2015.

The magazine had, in early September, reprinted cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed -- maybe to mark the start of that trial.

Three weeks later, a Pakistani man wounded two people outside the weekly's former offices, hacking at them with a cleaver.

The assailant, named as Zaheer Hassan Mahmoud was arrested after September's attack on terror charges and remains in custody. He told investigators that prior to the attack he had watched "videos from Pakistan" concerning the satirical magazine's decision to republish the cartoons.

On October 16, a young Chechen refugee beheaded teacher Samuel Paty, who had shown some of the caricatures to his pupils.

Less than two weeks later, three people were killed when a young Tunisian recently arrived in Europe went on a stabbing spree at a church in the Mediterranean city of Nice.

French authorities have charged and detained four Pakistanis suspected of links to a meat cleaver attack by a compatriot outside the former offices of the Charlie Hebdo weekly.

French authorities have charged and detained four Pakistanis suspected of links to a meat cleaver attack by a compatriot outside the former offices of the Charlie Hebdo weekly. The attack had then wounded two people. According to AFP, the four male suspects were in contact with the attacker. They are suspected of being aware of the attacker's plot and inciting him to carry it out. Three of them were charged on Friday with taking part in a terrorist conspiracy and placed in pre-trial detention. The fourth had already been charged on Wednesday. News of the charges comes two days after a Paris court convicted 13 accomplices of the jihadist gunmen who massacred Charlie Hebdo staff in January 2015. The magazine had, in early September, reprinted cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed -- maybe to mark the start of that trial. Three weeks later, a Pakistani man wounded two people outside the weekly's former offices, hacking at them with a cleaver. The assailant, named as Zaheer Hassan Mahmoud was arrested after September's attack on terror charges and remains in custody. He told investigators that prior to the attack he had watched "videos from Pakistan" concerning the satirical magazine's decision to republish the cartoons. On October 16, a young Chechen refugee beheaded teacher Samuel Paty, who had shown some of the caricatures to his pupils. Less than two weeks later, three people were killed when a young Tunisian recently arrived in Europe went on a stabbing spree at a church in the Mediterranean city of Nice.

France detains four people of Pak origin over attack on former Charlie Hebdo offices

Nearly half the French population does not trust the Covid-19 vaccination, making Pasteur's country one of the most anti-vaccine countries in the world

Medical historian puts phenomenon of anti-vaccine movement into perspective

The French-made typecasting machine is over a century old, the Egyptian hieroglyphs 5,000 years. Now, in a Cairo workshop, the mechanical marvel has come to life once again. Out of action for about three decades, a massive Foucher hot metal typecaster built in 1902 has been restored to its former glory.

Cairo restored hieroglyph typecaster tells new stories

The 42-year-old took a test after developing symptoms and will now self-isolate for seven days, the Elysée Palace said in a statement.

French president Emmanuel Macron tests positive for Covid-19

People in France could start receiving the COVID-19 vaccine developed by Pfizer/BioNTech in the last week of December if European Union authorities approve it next week, French Prime Minister Jean Castex said on Wednesday.

Coronavirus Pandemic: Europe pushes for COVID-19 vaccine rollout

Seventeen people were killed over three days of attacks in January 2015, beginning with the massacre of 12 people at the magazine, which had published cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed.

WION Dispatch: France braces for verdicts in Charlie Hebdo attack trial

Facebook has removed two networks based in Russia and one linked to the French military, accusing them of carrying out interference campaigns in Africa.

Two networks running multiple Facebook accounts were assigned to people associated with the Russian Internet Research Agency, and the third had "links to individuals associated with French military," the social media platform said in a statement on Tuesday.

All three were removed from the site for breaking its policy against foreign or government interference.

Facebook added the networks targetted countries mainly in north Africa and some in the Middle East.

Nathaniel Gleicher, Facebook's head of security policy, and David Agranovich, head of global threat disruption, said in a blog that the campaigns duelled with each other online.

The networks "used fake accounts as a central part of their operations to mislead people about who they are and what they are doing, and that was the basis for our action," Facebook said.

The French network targetted the Central African Republic and Mali, and, to a lesser extent, Niger, Burkina Faso, Algeria, Cote d'Ivoire and Chad. It involved 84 Facebook accounts, six pages, nine groups and 14 Instagram accounts that violated policy against "coordinated inauthentic behaviour."

Some of the posts, in French and Arabic, were about France's policies in Francophone Africa, claims of Russian interference in CAR elections, supportive comments about the French military and criticism of Russia.

In disrupting the two Russian networks, the social network removed 274 Facebook accounts and 18 Instagram accounts, along with an array of groups and pages.

(with inputs)

Facebook has removed two networks based in Russia and one linked to the French military, accusing them of carrying out interference campaigns in Africa. Two networks running multiple Facebook accounts were assigned to people associated with the Russian Internet Research Agency, and the third had "links to individuals associated with French military," the social media platform said in a statement on Tuesday.

Facebook has removed two networks based in Russia and one linked to the French military, accusing them of carrying out interference campaigns in Africa. Two networks running multiple Facebook accounts were assigned to people associated with the Russian Internet Research Agency, and the third had "links to individuals associated with French military," the social media platform said in a statement on Tuesday. All three were removed from the site for breaking its policy against foreign or government interference. Facebook added the networks targetted countries mainly in north Africa and some in the Middle East. Nathaniel Gleicher, Facebook's head of security policy, and David Agranovich, head of global threat disruption, said in a blog that the campaigns duelled with each other online. The networks "used fake accounts as a central part of their operations to mislead people about who they are and what they are doing, and that was the basis for our action," Facebook said. The French network targetted the Central African Republic and Mali, and, to a lesser extent, Niger, Burkina Faso, Algeria, Cote d'Ivoire and Chad. It involved 84 Facebook accounts, six pages, nine groups and 14 Instagram accounts that violated policy against "coordinated inauthentic behaviour." Some of the posts, in French and Arabic, were about France's policies in Francophone Africa, claims of Russian interference in CAR elections, supportive comments about the French military and criticism of Russia. In disrupting the two Russian networks, the social network removed 274 Facebook accounts and 18 Instagram accounts, along with an array of groups and pages. (with inputs)

Facebook closes fake accounts linked to French military and Russia

Verdict awaited in French trial over Charlie Hebdo attack

france

France, News on France, stories on France, articles on France, France stories at Wion, France news, France latest news