French President Emmanuel Macron defended his approach to the US and China after his call for Europe to avoid being dragged into a conflict between Beijing and Washington sparked a backlash. Macron said that being a US ally did not mean being a "vassal".

President Macron insists France won't be US 'vassal' on Taiwan

French President Emmanuel Macron defended his approach to the US and China on Wednesday after his call for Europe to avoid being dragged into a conflict between Beijing and Washington sparked a backlash.

French President seeks to defend stance on China after backlash

Taiwan has lived for decades under constant threat of an invasion by China. Beijing claims Taiwan as a part of its territory to be seized one day, even by force if required. However, many Taiwanese people consider their self-ruled island to be distinct - whether or not independence is ever officially declared. Now, French president Macron has said france won't be a US Vassal on Taiwan. China has never renounced the use of force to bring the democratically governed island under its control. Beijing plans to control strategic choke points and deny access to foreign forces. Some analysts say Macron is seeking to safeguard french interests in the asia-pacific region. Paris sees itself as a player in the asia-pacific, due to its overseas territories and military deployments.

Macron backs 'One China'; Paris has overseas territories & military deployments in Asia-Pacific

Some protesters in The Hague theatre Tuesday brandished a banner calling Macron the "president of violence and hypocrisy." Watch the video to know more.

Protesters shout down Macron on visit to the Netherlands

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news and top headlines from all across the globe - Joe Biden to address Ireland's parliament; Macron face flank in Netherlands

Joe Biden to address Ireland's parliament; Macron face flank in Netherlands

French President Emmanuel Macron said in an interview published on Sunday that Europe must not be a "follower" of either the U.S. or China on Taiwan, saying that the bloc risks entanglement in "crises that aren't ours".

Macron says Europe must not be 'follower' of U.S., China on Taiwan

French President Emmanuel #Macron wraps up a three-day state visit to China in the southern city of Guangzhou Friday. Watch the video to know more.

Macron wraps up a three-day state visit to China

French President Emmanuel Macron was greeted by a huge crowd as he arrived at a university in southern China, as he neared the end of a three-day state visit in which he has repeatedly pushed his counterpart Xi Jinping to help end the Ukraine conflict.

Macron meets with students, dines with Xi on final day of China visit

French President Emmanuel Macron and Chinese President Xi Jinping have said they are opposed to the use of nuclear weapons in Ukraine. Meanwhile, Macron said on Wednesday that China had a “major role” to play in finding a path to peace in Ukraine, as he kicked off a three-day visit to Beijing.

Opposed to use of nuclear weapons in Ukraine, says French President Macron, Xi Jinping

French President Emmanuel Macron is due to visit China on Wednesday (Apri 15). He appears to have a balancing act before him as he attempts to keep relations between the two countries smooth and at the same time, dissuade China from supporting Russian&nbsp;invasion of Ukraine.

"China is the only country in the world capable of having an immediate and radical impact on the conflict, in one direction or the other," an official from Macron's office told reporters Friday on condition of anonymity. The official was quoted by AFP.&nbsp;

The official reportedly added that Macron will look to stand firm towards Chinese President Xi Jinping all the while taking 'another path' from directly confrontational tone often heard from Washington.

The French leader's aims include preserving and rebalancing China's trade ties with Europe as well as safeguarding French interests in the Asia-Pacific region -- where Paris sees itself as a player thanks to its overseas territories and military deployments.

Macron's visit is likely to be representative of the European Union's stance towards the current political situation in the world. It was notable that European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen met Macron in Paris on Monday just days before Macron's visit to China.

The French leader's aims include preserving and rebalancing China's trade ties with Europe as well as safeguarding French interests in the Asia-Pacific region -- where Paris sees itself as a player thanks to its overseas territories and military deployments.

In a speech last week, von der Leyen cautioned Beijing against direct support for the war while ruling out the 27-member European Union "decoupling" from China.

The Europeans won't hold Xi back from arming Russia by "saying nicely what he shouldn't do," said Antoine Bondaz of the Paris-based Foundation for Strategic Research (FRS). Bondaz was quoted by AFP.

He predicted instead that the leaders would warn him off arms deliveries in public while dangling the threat of sanctions in their private talks.

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French President Emmanuel Macron is due to visit China on Wednesday (Apri 15). He appears to have a balancing act before him as he attempts to keep relations between the two countries smooth and at the same time, dissuade China from supporting Russian invasion of Ukraine.

French President Emmanuel Macron is due to visit China on Wednesday (Apri 15). He appears to have a balancing act before him as he attempts to keep relations between the two countries smooth and at the same time, dissuade China from supporting Russian invasion of Ukraine. "China is the only country in the world capable of having an immediate and radical impact on the conflict, in one direction or the other," an official from Macron's office told reporters Friday on condition of anonymity. The official was quoted by AFP. The official reportedly added that Macron will look to stand firm towards Chinese President Xi Jinping all the while taking 'another path' from directly confrontational tone often heard from Washington. The French leader's aims include preserving and rebalancing China's trade ties with Europe as well as safeguarding French interests in the Asia-Pacific region -- where Paris sees itself as a player thanks to its overseas territories and military deployments. Macron's visit is likely to be representative of the European Union's stance towards the current political situation in the world. It was notable that European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen met Macron in Paris on Monday just days before Macron's visit to China. The French leader's aims include preserving and rebalancing China's trade ties with Europe as well as safeguarding French interests in the Asia-Pacific region -- where Paris sees itself as a player thanks to its overseas territories and military deployments. In a speech last week, von der Leyen cautioned Beijing against direct support for the war while ruling out the 27-member European Union "decoupling" from China. The Europeans won't hold Xi back from arming Russia by "saying nicely what he shouldn't do," said Antoine Bondaz of the Paris-based Foundation for Strategic Research (FRS). Bondaz was quoted by AFP. He predicted instead that the leaders would warn him off arms deliveries in public while dangling the threat of sanctions in their private talks. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

As Macron heads to China, balancing act over Ukraine awaits him

Emmanuel Macron, the president of France, came under fire for taking off an expensive watch during a TV interview about pension reforms.&nbsp;He was shown briefly slipping his hands under the table and seemingly taking off his watch during a prime-time national television show in which he vowed to move forward with plans to raise the pension age from 62 to 64, further infuriating his critics.&nbsp;

The opposition politicians termed him president of the rich who "has never lived up to his name so well," juxtaposing the move with his claims in the interview about minimum wage earners "who have never had so much purchasing power."

The&nbsp;Elysee Palace claims&nbsp;that Macron did&nbsp;not remove&nbsp;the watch&nbsp;“in order to hide it&nbsp;– but because it was clinking against the table,” as reported by the Independent.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media

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Petit jeu (facile). 
Qu'est-ce qui disparaît entre ces 2 extraits ? <a href="https://t.co/kkn0U8p1Gj">pic.twitter.com/kkn0U8p1Gj</a>
— Caisses de grève (@caissesdegreve) <a href="https://twitter.com/caissesdegreve/status/1638857561704202243?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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“The noise is clearly audible only a few seconds before the beginning of the video shared on social media,” the presidential palace said in a widely reported statement, which chimes with the audio in the viral clip.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/king-charles-france-visit-postponed-as-pension-protests-turn-violent-575344">King Charles III’s state visit to France postponed as pension protests turn violent</a>

About 10 minutes into the interview, Macron put his wrists on the table and a clunk was audible. Then he put his hands under the desk. When they came out, his left wrist's watch was gone.

The manoeuvre caught the eyes of the French audience&nbsp;and the clip has since gone viral.

The watch's exact worth is unclear. It was reportedly made by the French company Bell &amp; Ross and cost between €1,600 (US$1,725)&nbsp;and €2,400 (US$2,587), according to French media.

Millions of people have protested against Macron's reforms. Ifop reported last week that Macron's approval rating has dropped to just 28 per cent, the lowest since the peak of the Yellow Vest protests in 2018. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
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Emmanuel Macron, the president of France, came under fire for taking off an expensive watch during a TV interview about pension reforms. He was shown briefly slipping his hands under the table and seemingly taking off his watch during a prime-time national television show in which he vowed to move forward with plans to raise the pension age from 62 to 64, further infuriating his critics.

Emmanuel Macron, the president of France, came under fire for taking off an expensive watch during a TV interview about pension reforms. He was shown briefly slipping his hands under the table and seemingly taking off his watch during a prime-time national television show in which he vowed to move forward with plans to raise the pension age from 62 to 64, further infuriating his critics. The opposition politicians termed him president of the rich who "has never lived up to his name so well," juxtaposing the move with his claims in the interview about minimum wage earners "who have never had so much purchasing power." The Elysee Palace claims that Macron did not remove the watch “in order to hide it – but because it was clinking against the table,” as reported by the Independent. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media Petit jeu (facile). Qu'est-ce qui disparaît entre ces 2 extraits ? pic.twitter.com/kkn0U8p1Gj — Caisses de grève (@caissesdegreve) March 23, 2023 × “The noise is clearly audible only a few seconds before the beginning of the video shared on social media,” the presidential palace said in a widely reported statement, which chimes with the audio in the viral clip. ALSO READ | King Charles III’s state visit to France postponed as pension protests turn violent About 10 minutes into the interview, Macron put his wrists on the table and a clunk was audible. Then he put his hands under the desk. When they came out, his left wrist's watch was gone. The manoeuvre caught the eyes of the French audience and the clip has since gone viral. The watch's exact worth is unclear. It was reportedly made by the French company Bell & Ross and cost between €1,600 (US$1,725) and €2,400 (US$2,587), according to French media. Millions of people have protested against Macron's reforms. Ifop reported last week that Macron's approval rating has dropped to just 28 per cent, the lowest since the peak of the Yellow Vest protests in 2018. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

France: Macron takes off luxury watch on television while talking about pension reforms, irks protesters

Women, especially in the public eye, have become targets of gendered disinformation, a mix of misogyny and fallacy that spoils their reputations, damages their credibility, and hurts their professions.

Women, especially in the public eye, have become targets of gendered disinformation, a mix of misogyny and fallacy that spoils their reputations, damages their credibility, and hurts their professions. AFP's global fact-checkers have discredited fake news attacking women in politics. They have revealed multiple online campaigns featuring fake news or manipulated photos, often sexually charged. In 2022, a fake picture of Ukraine's First Lady Olena Zelenska, lying topless on an Israeli beach took Facebook by storm. The manipulated image triggered criticism that she enjoyed her vacation while the war-struck Ukraine suffered. However, AFP revealed that the woman in the photo was a Russian television presenter. Many prominent political figures have been targets of false online posts and transphobic remarks, including the USA's former first lady Michelle Obama, France's first lady Brigitte Macron, and New Zealand's former prime minister Jacinda Ardern. ALSO READ | Explained: Who is Stormy Daniels, the porn star who could send Trump to jail Global battle against falsehood & misogyny A study titled 'Monetizing Misogyny' by Lucina Di Meco, a gender equality expert, said, "Building on sexist stereotypes and disseminated with malign intent, gendered disinformation campaigns have a chilling effect on the women they target." She added that gendered disinformation leads to "political violence, hate and the deterring of young women from considering a political career." UNESCO held a dialogue to 'advance effective response' to online gendered disinformation on January 25, 2023, on the affair of the International Day of Women. WATCH | Judicial reform bills: Protesters PARALYZE Israel with roadblocks, rallies Gendered disinformation: A national security threat Many researchers said gendered disinformation is a national security threat as autocratic states can exploit it to exercise foreign influence. Moreover, gendered disinformation is a tool to subdue the opposition. "When autocratic leaders are in power, gendered disinformation is often used by state-aligned actors to undermine women opposition leaders, as well as women's rights," Di Meco's report warned. Facebook stated to the US media, recognising the online abuse of women as a 'serious issue' and vowed to work with policymakers on their concerns. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Women battle misogyny as cases of gendered disinformation and fake news increase globally

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and French president Emmanuel Macron hold a joint news conference in Paris. Migrant crossings are likely to be the main topic of discussion at the France-UK summit.

Sunak and Macron hold joint news conference at Paris summit

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak travelled to Paris to attend a summit with French President Emmanuel Macron. The two leaders are expected to flesh out agreements on migrant crossings, energy security and protecting people from the threat of Russia.

Sunak to push Macron to stop migrants crossings

Macron welcomes Sunak, focus on bilateral relations, migration and military ties

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will agree to closer defence and security ties with French President Emmanuel Macron when they meet on Friday, committing to greater collaboration in supporting Ukraine and in the Indo-Pacific region.

Sunak and Macron to agree on more security cooperation at Paris meeting

French president Emmanuel Macron is engaged in his biggest standoff with the country's labour unions since taking office in 2017.&nbsp;The end of a series of strikes and rallies over pension reform is crucial for both parties. WION examines what is&nbsp;at risk for the president, the unions, and the nation as a whole as labour unions attempt to "put the country to a standstill."

<h2>Macron's pension reform: What is the plan?</h2>

In order to put France more in line with its European Union&nbsp;(EU) neighbours, most of which have raised the retirement age to 65 or higher, Macron's flagship plan would raise the minimum retirement age from its present level of 62 to 64, as reported by the Associated Press.&nbsp;

The measure also tightens the criteria for receiving a full pension and limits perks enjoyed by some public-sector workers, including those working for the Paris Metro.

The administration now emphasises that it is more about savings after stating previously&nbsp;that it was meant to make the system fairer.

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos on social media.

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🇫🇷 Gigantic demonstration in Marseille against the pension reform. <a href="https://t.co/tpmUsml9RM">pic.twitter.com/tpmUsml9RM</a>
— 𝚁𝙰𝙶𝙴 𝙰𝙶𝙰𝙸𝙽𝚂𝚃 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝚅𝙰𝙲𝙲𝙸𝙽𝙴 (@72powpow) <a href="https://twitter.com/72powpow/status/1633069703924183041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"The status quo in the next 10 years means 150 billion euros [$160 billion] of accumulated deficits and a fall in the quality of life of pensioners," Labour Minister Olivier Dussopt said at the weekend.&nbsp;

The revisions, which would also result in minor hikes for the lowest pensions, are expected to take effect in September 2023.&nbsp;

<h2>Who are against pension reforms?</h2>

The trade unions in France have planned five different protest days so far, but on Tuesday (March 7), they'll pick up the pace, and the possibility of rolling strikes could have serious consequences in the days to come, as reported by AFP.&nbsp;

Their major issue is that, in comparison to university graduates, unskilled people who frequently toil in physically taxing jobs and start their careers early are being&nbsp;penalised by the reforms.

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="df314e76-3141-471d-93ba-72310130465f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/The%20battle%20for%20Kyiv%20%2838%29.png" />

A cyclist passes by a banner that reads, ' Retirement at... raise fist strike, blockage, Macron get out' during protests in Montpellier, southern France on March 7, 2023. Photo credits: AFP

They also dispute the government's claim that the pay-as-you-go pension system faces impending deficits, arguing that modest increases in contributions may prevent this from happening.

The unions have the support of both the Socialists and Greens as well as the hard-left France Unbowed (LFI) political party, which wants to cut the retirement age to 60.

In addition to opposing the reform, Marine Le Pen's far-right party is also troubled by proposals to impose rolling strikes in France.

A host of left-wing scholars have also voiced disapproval, particularly famous economist Thomas Piketty, who views Macron as strengthening his reputation as "the president of the rich," as per AFP reports.&nbsp;

<h2>How do the strikes affect Macron?</h2>

During his first term, Macron attempted to advance pension reform but was unsuccessful. In April, during his re-election campaign, Macron brought up the subject once more.

Running on a similar pro-business platform, he beat Le Pen by promising to reduce unemployment and force the French to "work harder" in order to pay for the nation's social security system.

Political experts disagree, though, and Macron himself conceded in his victory speech that many people had supported him just to protect Le Pen from winning the presidency.

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CGT unionists take part in a demonstration on the Vieux Port (Old Harbour) in Marseille on March 7, 2023. Photo credits: AFP

The 45-year-old has moved forward despite concerns from allies about the timing of the change so soon after the COVID-19 outbreak and in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis.

"For Emmanuel&nbsp;Macron, pulling back would be an abdication," senior right-wing senator Bruno Retailleau, who supports the reform, told AFP.&nbsp;"If he pulled back, he couldn't reform anymore, his term would be over," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>Are these protests common in France?&nbsp;</h2>

Since reforms occur in France without opposition, the administration is&nbsp;bracing itself for a rough road since the onset of the protests.&nbsp;

The labour movement's accomplishments over the past century are viewed by left-wingers as being under attack whenever there is an attempt to limit workers' rights, whether it be through reduced working hours, generous pensions, or protected employment contracts.

The 2010 demonstrations, when right-wing president Nicolas Sarkozy increased the retirement age from 60 to 62, may end up being eclipsed by the current ones.

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos on social media.

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🤬🇫🇷 Police throw TEAR GAS at protesters as they block highways and trucks all across France, just the beginning of full-scale demonstrations in country expected today, March 7, over government’s pension reform. <a href="https://t.co/4MYdxZLzNq">pic.twitter.com/4MYdxZLzNq</a>
— Truthseeker (@Xx17965797N) <a href="https://twitter.com/Xx17965797N/status/1633046148788150274?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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They surpass those of 1995, when the government was compelled to do the infamous U-turn on pensions, and are also larger.

The emergence of working from home and modern technologies has lessened interruptions, so the impact of Tuesday's stoppages is different.

<h2>What to expect next?</h2>

The government's plan is simple: push the law through parliament as quickly as possible and win approval by the middle of this month, or at the latest by March 26, as examined by AFP.

Macron's centrist party does not currently hold a majority in the National Assembly, but it should be able to rely on support from the right-wing Republican party to gain the required majorities in both houses.

(With inputs from agencies)

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French president Emmanuel Macron is engaged in his biggest standoff with the country's labour unions since taking office in 2017. The end of a series of strikes and rallies over pension reform is crucial for both parties.

French president Emmanuel Macron is engaged in his biggest standoff with the country's labour unions since taking office in 2017. The end of a series of strikes and rallies over pension reform is crucial for both parties. WION examines what is at risk for the president, the unions, and the nation as a whole as labour unions attempt to "put the country to a standstill." Macron's pension reform: What is the plan? In order to put France more in line with its European Union (EU) neighbours, most of which have raised the retirement age to 65 or higher, Macron's flagship plan would raise the minimum retirement age from its present level of 62 to 64, as reported by the Associated Press. The measure also tightens the criteria for receiving a full pension and limits perks enjoyed by some public-sector workers, including those working for the Paris Metro. The administration now emphasises that it is more about savings after stating previously that it was meant to make the system fairer. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos on social media. 🇫🇷 Gigantic demonstration in Marseille against the pension reform. pic.twitter.com/tpmUsml9RM — 𝚁𝙰𝙶𝙴 𝙰𝙶𝙰𝙸𝙽𝚂𝚃 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝚅𝙰𝙲𝙲𝙸𝙽𝙴 (@72powpow) March 7, 2023 × "The status quo in the next 10 years means 150 billion euros [$160 billion] of accumulated deficits and a fall in the quality of life of pensioners," Labour Minister Olivier Dussopt said at the weekend. The revisions, which would also result in minor hikes for the lowest pensions, are expected to take effect in September 2023. Who are against pension reforms? The trade unions in France have planned five different protest days so far, but on Tuesday (March 7), they'll pick up the pace, and the possibility of rolling strikes could have serious consequences in the days to come, as reported by AFP. Their major issue is that, in comparison to university graduates, unskilled people who frequently toil in physically taxing jobs and start their careers early are being penalised by the reforms. A cyclist passes by a banner that reads, ' Retirement at... raise fist strike, blockage, Macron get out' during protests in Montpellier, southern France on March 7, 2023. Photo credits: AFP They also dispute the government's claim that the pay-as-you-go pension system faces impending deficits, arguing that modest increases in contributions may prevent this from happening. The unions have the support of both the Socialists and Greens as well as the hard-left France Unbowed (LFI) political party, which wants to cut the retirement age to 60. In addition to opposing the reform, Marine Le Pen's far-right party is also troubled by proposals to impose rolling strikes in France. A host of left-wing scholars have also voiced disapproval, particularly famous economist Thomas Piketty, who views Macron as strengthening his reputation as "the president of the rich," as per AFP reports. How do the strikes affect Macron? During his first term, Macron attempted to advance pension reform but was unsuccessful. In April, during his re-election campaign, Macron brought up the subject once more. Running on a similar pro-business platform, he beat Le Pen by promising to reduce unemployment and force the French to "work harder" in order to pay for the nation's social security system. Political experts disagree, though, and Macron himself conceded in his victory speech that many people had supported him just to protect Le Pen from winning the presidency. CGT unionists take part in a demonstration on the Vieux Port (Old Harbour) in Marseille on March 7, 2023. Photo credits: AFP The 45-year-old has moved forward despite concerns from allies about the timing of the change so soon after the COVID-19 outbreak and in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis. "For Emmanuel Macron, pulling back would be an abdication," senior right-wing senator Bruno Retailleau, who supports the reform, told AFP. "If he pulled back, he couldn't reform anymore, his term would be over," he added. Are these protests common in France? Since reforms occur in France without opposition, the administration is bracing itself for a rough road since the onset of the protests. The labour movement's accomplishments over the past century are viewed by left-wingers as being under attack whenever there is an attempt to limit workers' rights, whether it be through reduced working hours, generous pensions, or protected employment contracts. The 2010 demonstrations, when right-wing president Nicolas Sarkozy increased the retirement age from 60 to 62, may end up being eclipsed by the current ones. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos on social media. 🤬🇫🇷 Police throw TEAR GAS at protesters as they block highways and trucks all across France, just the beginning of full-scale demonstrations in country expected today, March 7, over government’s pension reform. pic.twitter.com/4MYdxZLzNq — Truthseeker (@Xx17965797N) March 7, 2023 × They surpass those of 1995, when the government was compelled to do the infamous U-turn on pensions, and are also larger. The emergence of working from home and modern technologies has lessened interruptions, so the impact of Tuesday's stoppages is different. What to expect next? The government's plan is simple: push the law through parliament as quickly as possible and win approval by the middle of this month, or at the latest by March 26, as examined by AFP. Macron's centrist party does not currently hold a majority in the National Assembly, but it should be able to rely on support from the right-wing Republican party to gain the required majorities in both houses. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Explained: It is Macron vs. labour unions, what could be the implications of these strikes for France?

French president Emmanuel Macron had an argument with the Democratic Republic of Congo president while he was on a visit to the nation. The argument took place when Congo president reminded his French counterpart about his country's involvement in the 1994 genocide however macron bluntly rejected the blame attributed to France.

Macron to DRC Prez: You have not been able to restore sovereignty

French President Emmanuel Macron is on his last-leg of African tour. During talks with the leaders of Angola, DRC and Rwanda, Emmanuel Macron has stated that all parties in the conflict zone of Eastern Africa have agreed for a ceasefire in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

French President Emmanuel Macron lauds 'ceasefire' in Eastern Africa

French President Emmanuel Macron now says that the era of French interference in Africa was over. The President was on a four-nation African tour of the continent.

French President Emmanuel Macron returns on a four-nation African tour

Early in April, French President Emmanuel Macron will travel to China in an effort to persuade Beijing to put pressure on Russia to halt the conflict in Ukraine.

Macron has urged Beijing to pressure Russia to end the war

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Russia on Sunday slammed France President Emmanuel Macron over his remarks about wanting to see Russia defeated in the war against Ukraine and reminded him of the fate of Napoleon Bonaparte while accusing the French president of duplicitous diplomacy with the Kremlin. Macron had told paper Le Journal du Dimanche that France wanted Russia to be defeated in Ukraine but had never wanted to "crush" it. Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday (February 19) slammed Macron and invoked Napoleon while accusing France and the West of attempting to "change the government" in Moscow. Foreign Ministry's spokesperson Maria Zakharova said that "France did not begin with Macron, but the remains of Napoleon, revered at the state level, rest in the centre of Paris. So that France understands everything, and so does Russia." Zakharova said Moscow still remembers the fate of Napoleon Bonaparte and accused the French president of two-faced diplomacy with the Kremlin. ALSO READ | French news channel suspends anchor for running planted stories at behest of Israeli disinformation unit Her comments came after Macron's interview with the newspaper Le Journal Le Dimanche was published, where the French president said: "I want the defeat of Russia in Ukraine and I want that Ukraine can defend its position, but I am convinced that at the end this won't end militarily." He added that he doesn't think that Russia would be "defeated completely" or attacked on its own soil. He said, "These commentators want above all to erase Russia. That has never been France's position and it will never be." Macron urged allies on Friday to step up military support for Ukraine. However, he did mention that he did not believe in "regime change". He repeated that he thinks there would have to be negotiations at some point. ALSO READ | Russia claims capture of village in eastern Ukrainian region Kharkiv; 2 civilians injured in city near Kyiv He said, "Let’s be clear, I don't believe for one second in regime change, and when I hear a lot of people calling for regime change I ask them, 'For which change? Who’s next? Who is your leader?'" Russia picked up the "regime change" remark and said that it showed the West had engaged in discussions about regime change in Russia. Watch this report: × Macron had faced criticism also in the past when he urged to follow diplomatic channels to end the war and repeatedly sought meetings with the Russian leadership. He remained a staunch supporter of Ukrainians while speaking at the Munich Security Conference on Friday, and repeated his call to "strengthen our support and our effort to help the Ukrainian people and army’s resistance and allow them to carry out the counter-offensive". (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.

Russia slams Emmanuel Macron for his remarks, says Moscow remembers Napoleon’s fate

French President Emmanuel Macron has said that Russia should be defeated in Ukraine, but added that he doesn’t want to see the war getting dragged to Moscow soil in a bid to “crush” the nation.&nbsp;Macron made these comments on Saturday during the Munich Security Conference, which saw assurances to expedite the supply of weapons to Kyiv and impose tougher sanctions on Moscow.&nbsp;Macron told the French media that he had urged Western nations to increase military support for Kyiv and said he was prepared for a protracted war.

"I want Russia to be defeated in Ukraine, and I want Ukraine to be able to defend its position," he was quoted as saying.

However, he added that he was against those who want to extend the war to Russia itself in a bid to "crush" the nation.

"I do not think, as some people do, that we must aim for a total defeat of Russia, attacking Russia on its own soil," Macron told Le Journal du Dimanche newspaper.

"Those observers want to, above all else, crush Russia. That has never been the position of France and it will never be our position."

Macron pressed for a dialogue with Moscow, with the main aim of negotiating a peace deal as the final goal.

The French leader asserted that supplying military aid to Ukraine was necessary in order to "bring Russia back to the table and build a lasting peace".

He also dismissed the prospect of regime change in Russia, describing similar efforts around the world as a "total failure".

(With inputs from agencies)

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French President Emmanuel Macron has said that Russia should be defeated in Ukraine, but added that he doesn’t want to see the war getting dragged to Moscow soil in a bid to “crush” the nation.

French President Emmanuel Macron has said that Russia should be defeated in Ukraine, but added that he doesn’t want to see the war getting dragged to Moscow soil in a bid to “crush” the nation. Macron made these comments on Saturday during the Munich Security Conference, which saw assurances to expedite the supply of weapons to Kyiv and impose tougher sanctions on Moscow. Macron told the French media that he had urged Western nations to increase military support for Kyiv and said he was prepared for a protracted war. "I want Russia to be defeated in Ukraine, and I want Ukraine to be able to defend its position," he was quoted as saying. However, he added that he was against those who want to extend the war to Russia itself in a bid to "crush" the nation. "I do not think, as some people do, that we must aim for a total defeat of Russia, attacking Russia on its own soil," Macron told Le Journal du Dimanche newspaper. "Those observers want to, above all else, crush Russia. That has never been the position of France and it will never be our position." Macron pressed for a dialogue with Moscow, with the main aim of negotiating a peace deal as the final goal. The French leader asserted that supplying military aid to Ukraine was necessary in order to "bring Russia back to the table and build a lasting peace". He also dismissed the prospect of regime change in Russia, describing similar efforts around the world as a "total failure". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Want Russia to be ‘defeated’ in war against Ukraine, not ‘crushed’, says France’s Macron

French President Emmanuel Macron, who hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky few days ahead in Paris, rebuked Russia at the Munich Security Conference, for its ongoing onslaught on Ukraine. In a strong statement, Macron said "it is not the time for dialogue because Russia has chosen war."&nbsp;

While pledging his staunch support for Ukraine in its fight, Macron said that Ukrainian allies "absolutely need" to intensify the support for the Ukrainian people and its army to help them to launch a counter-offensive.

He added that counter-offensive will be the only way to "allow credible negotiations."&nbsp;

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Macron at his address at the conference said, "No one in this room has an answer to this: There is not complete and long-term peace in our continent as long as the Russian matter goes unresolved."

He went on to say that the western allies stands in solidarity with Ukraine and is "ready for a prolonged conflict." The French president said that Russia is "further intensify this war, and has chosen to go as far as committing war crimes and attacking civilian infrastructures."

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Meanwhile, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in his address said that the western allies should send tanks to Ukraine now. "We need to hurry up. We need speed – speed of our agreements, speed of our delivery, speed of decisions to limit Russian potential. There is no alternative to speed because it is the speed that life depends on," he said.

Zelensky, who opened the Munich Security Conference on Friday urged allies to "hurry up" and support Kyiv.&nbsp;

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World leaders have gathered in Germany to attend the Munich Security Conference, scheduled from 17 February to 19 February. The annual conference which deals with the contemporary global security policy challenges is being held days ahead of one-year anniversary of Russia's war on Ukraine, which started last year on 24 February.&nbsp;

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French President Emmanuel Macron, who hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky few days ahead in Paris, rebuked Russia at the Munich Security Conference, for its ongoing onslaught on Ukraine.

French President Emmanuel Macron, who hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky few days ahead in Paris, rebuked Russia at the Munich Security Conference, for its ongoing onslaught on Ukraine. In a strong statement, Macron said "it is not the time for dialogue because Russia has chosen war." While pledging his staunch support for Ukraine in its fight, Macron said that Ukrainian allies "absolutely need" to intensify the support for the Ukrainian people and its army to help them to launch a counter-offensive. He added that counter-offensive will be the only way to "allow credible negotiations." Also Read | Japan aborts launch of flagship H3 rocket moments before lift off Macron at his address at the conference said, "No one in this room has an answer to this: There is not complete and long-term peace in our continent as long as the Russian matter goes unresolved." He went on to say that the western allies stands in solidarity with Ukraine and is "ready for a prolonged conflict." The French president said that Russia is "further intensify this war, and has chosen to go as far as committing war crimes and attacking civilian infrastructures." Also Read | As Ukraine is set to mark one-year war anniversary, Dutch PM meets Zelensky in Kyiv Meanwhile, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in his address said that the western allies should send tanks to Ukraine now. "We need to hurry up. We need speed – speed of our agreements, speed of our delivery, speed of decisions to limit Russian potential. There is no alternative to speed because it is the speed that life depends on," he said. Zelensky, who opened the Munich Security Conference on Friday urged allies to "hurry up" and support Kyiv. Watch | Tom Blundell leads New Zealand fightback in England first Test World leaders have gathered in Germany to attend the Munich Security Conference, scheduled from 17 February to 19 February. The annual conference which deals with the contemporary global security policy challenges is being held days ahead of one-year anniversary of Russia's war on Ukraine, which started last year on 24 February. 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.

Munich Security Conference: French President Macron bashes Putin in a hard-hitting address

For the first time since the Russian invasion over a year ago, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky landed in Paris on Wednesday, for his first visit to an European Union member state, reported AFP news agency.&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron&nbsp;welcomed Zelensky and at a joint press conference with Ukrainian President and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, he assured that Ukraine can count on France in its war against Russia. “Russia cannot and must not win this war. As long as Russia continues to attack, we will continue to adapt and moderate the necessary military support to preserve Ukraine and its future,” said Macron.

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Macron added that France is "determined to help Ukraine to victory and the re-establishment of its legitimate rights." He went on to say that Paris would "continue its efforts" to deliver arms to Kyiv. This comes ahead of a working dinner.

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Macron assured him that France is determined to help Ukraine to "victory."&nbsp;Zelensky arrived at Paris Orly airport in a UK government aircraft after attending meetings in London.&nbsp;Zelensky has urged Europe to deliver planes, heavy arms to war-torn Ukraine "as soon as possible," reported AFP.&nbsp;Speaking in Paris, Sholz said, "I am taking a clear message to Brussels: Ukraine belongs to the European family."&nbsp;

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Macron on Wednesday also welcomed German Chancellor Olaf Scholz at the Elysee presidential palace in Paris ahead of a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This is Zelensky's rare visit to Europe, only his second trip abroad since the onset Russia's invasion of Ukraine on 24 Feb, 2022. The visit comes after the president's visit in London to meet with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

(With inputs from agencies)

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For the first time since the Russian invasion over a year ago, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky landed in Paris on Wednesday, for his first visit to an European Union member state, reported AFP news agency.

For the first time since the Russian invasion over a year ago, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky landed in Paris on Wednesday, for his first visit to an European Union member state, reported AFP news agency. French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed Zelensky and at a joint press conference with Ukrainian President and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, he assured that Ukraine can count on France in its war against Russia. “Russia cannot and must not win this war. As long as Russia continues to attack, we will continue to adapt and moderate the necessary military support to preserve Ukraine and its future,” said Macron. Also Read | Twitter bird 'caged' in Turkey after anger swamped social media over Erdogan's quake response Macron added that France is "determined to help Ukraine to victory and the re-establishment of its legitimate rights." He went on to say that Paris would "continue its efforts" to deliver arms to Kyiv. This comes ahead of a working dinner. Also Read | Russia warns of 'bloody harvest' in war escalation if UK sends fighter jets to Ukraine Macron assured him that France is determined to help Ukraine to "victory." Zelensky arrived at Paris Orly airport in a UK government aircraft after attending meetings in London. Zelensky has urged Europe to deliver planes, heavy arms to war-torn Ukraine "as soon as possible," reported AFP. Speaking in Paris, Sholz said, "I am taking a clear message to Brussels: Ukraine belongs to the European family." Watch | Turkiye earthquake survivors recall horror Macron on Wednesday also welcomed German Chancellor Olaf Scholz at the Elysee presidential palace in Paris ahead of a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This is Zelensky's rare visit to Europe, only his second trip abroad since the onset Russia's invasion of Ukraine on 24 Feb, 2022. The visit comes after the president's visit in London to meet with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. (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.

Macron welcomes Zelensky to France, says Paris determined to help Ukraine to 'victory'

President Emmanuel Macron has bestowed the Legion of Honour on Ukraine's leader Volodymyr Zelenskiy during a visit to Paris on Thursday (February 8).

'It's too much for me': Zelensky after being given highest award by Macron in Paris

Trade unions launched a third wave of nationwide strikes on Tuesday against President Emmanuel Macron's plans to make the French work longer before retirement.

France: Third wave of nationwide strikes against Macron's pension reform

French President Emmanuel Macron announced they had long rush of Iran's nuclear program. The statement came shortly after Macron held talks with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu who was in Paris to seek a stronger European stance against Tehran.

Macron denounces 'headlong rush' of Iran's Nuclear Programme, meets Israeli PM in Paris

Amid a new flareup in Middle East conflict in years,&nbsp;Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with French President Emmanuel Macron and other members of France's Jewish community in Paris on Thursday.&nbsp;

The talking points between the leaders included Macron's assurance to Israel that Paris stands in solidarity with Israel in the face of terrorism. Macron also called for peace between Israel and Palestine as the conflict saw a major blowout in years. &nbsp;

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On the other hand, Netanyahu, before leaving for Paris said that the "main topic" of talks will include Iran's nuclear weapons. Israel has been pushing the United States as well to take stringent action on Iran to prevent the nation from acquiring nuclear weapons.&nbsp;Netanyahu's visit comes days after a drone attack on a defence ministry facility in the Iranian city of Isfahan. Tehran blamed Israel for the attack.

Israeli-Palestine tensions reached a new high as the Israeli military raided West Bank last week which killed 10 Palestinians. A day after the brutal incident, a Palestinian shooting outside an east Jerusalem synagogue killed seven people, including a 14-year-old.

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Netanyahu earlier also made a visit to Jordan where he met the Jordanian King Abdullah.

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The visit was shadowed by tensions over the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound.&nbsp;Israel’s newly sworn-in National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir's earlier visited the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem on 3 January which drew condemnation from various Arab states including Jordan, UAE and Egypt.&nbsp;

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Amid a new flareup in Middle East conflict in years, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with French President Emmanuel Macron and other members of France's Jewish community in Paris on Thursday.

Amid a new flareup in Middle East conflict in years, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with French President Emmanuel Macron and other members of France's Jewish community in Paris on Thursday. The talking points between the leaders included Macron's assurance to Israel that Paris stands in solidarity with Israel in the face of terrorism. Macron also called for peace between Israel and Palestine as the conflict saw a major blowout in years. Also Read | Democrat Ilhan Omar ousted from House Foreign Affairs Committee for her anti-Semitic comments On the other hand, Netanyahu, before leaving for Paris said that the "main topic" of talks will include Iran's nuclear weapons. Israel has been pushing the United States as well to take stringent action on Iran to prevent the nation from acquiring nuclear weapons. Netanyahu's visit comes days after a drone attack on a defence ministry facility in the Iranian city of Isfahan. Tehran blamed Israel for the attack. Israeli-Palestine tensions reached a new high as the Israeli military raided West Bank last week which killed 10 Palestinians. A day after the brutal incident, a Palestinian shooting outside an east Jerusalem synagogue killed seven people, including a 14-year-old. Also Read | EU Parliament waives immunity from prosecution of two lawmakers in bribery scam probe Netanyahu earlier also made a visit to Jordan where he met the Jordanian King Abdullah. Watch | Will 'Operation Miracle' save the ocean's rarest marine mammal? | WION Climate Tracker The visit was shadowed by tensions over the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. Israel’s newly sworn-in National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir's earlier visited the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem on 3 January which drew condemnation from various Arab states including Jordan, UAE and Egypt. 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.

Netanyahu meets Macron amid fresh flareup in Middle-East conflict

Volodymyr Zelensky, the president of Ukraine, told his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday (January 24) as Ukraine&nbsp;marked 11 months of war that Russian athletes should have "no place" at the 2024 Paris Olympics. "I particularly emphasised that athletes from Russia should have no place at the Olympic Games in Paris," Zelensky wrote on Telegram following a telephone call with Macron.

On February 24, 2022, only a few days after the Beijing Winter Olympics' closing ceremony, Russia began its invasion of Ukraine.

The International Olympic Committee promptly imposed sanctions on Russia and neighbouring Belarus, which Moscow's forces used as a base for the invasion.

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Since the start of the war,&nbsp;neither Russia nor Belarus have hosted an international athletic event, and their national anthems are no longer played at significant events.

Thomas Bach, the head of the IOC, stated last year that he would like to see the athletic sanctions extended in 2023 and a strong Ukrainian team in the Olympics in Paris and the Winter Olympics in Italy in 2026.

Also watch |&nbsp;Ukraine Graft Clean-Up: Senior Ukrainian officials step down on graft charges

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Zelensky demanded in December that all Russian athletes be excluded entirely from all international competitions.

Additionally, the Ukrainian president expressed his&nbsp;disagreement with the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee's position that Russian and Belarusian athletes might compete in the Paris Games as long as they did not display their national flags.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Volodymyr Zelensky, the president of Ukraine, told his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday (January 24) as Ukraine marked 11 months of war that Russian athletes should have "no place" at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Volodymyr Zelensky, the president of Ukraine, told his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday (January 24) as Ukraine marked 11 months of war that Russian athletes should have "no place" at the 2024 Paris Olympics. "I particularly emphasised that athletes from Russia should have no place at the Olympic Games in Paris," Zelensky wrote on Telegram following a telephone call with Macron. On February 24, 2022, only a few days after the Beijing Winter Olympics' closing ceremony, Russia began its invasion of Ukraine. The International Olympic Committee promptly imposed sanctions on Russia and neighbouring Belarus, which Moscow's forces used as a base for the invasion. Also read | Five regional governors, four deputy ministers dismissed over corruption scandal in Ukraine Since the start of the war, neither Russia nor Belarus have hosted an international athletic event, and their national anthems are no longer played at significant events. Thomas Bach, the head of the IOC, stated last year that he would like to see the athletic sanctions extended in 2023 and a strong Ukrainian team in the Olympics in Paris and the Winter Olympics in Italy in 2026. Also watch | Ukraine Graft Clean-Up: Senior Ukrainian officials step down on graft charges Zelensky demanded in December that all Russian athletes be excluded entirely from all international competitions. Additionally, the Ukrainian president expressed his disagreement with the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee's position that Russian and Belarusian athletes might compete in the Paris Games as long as they did not display their national flags. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russian athletes should not compete at 2024 Paris Olympics: Zelensky tells Macron

French President Emmanuel Macron's new Pension Reform Bill begins its journey through Parliament on Monday. The scheme drew over a million protesters to the streets last Thursday.

WION Fineprint: French pension reforms face backlash

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