NATO countries are increasingly raising the alarm about the direct threats they are facing from Moscow's forces.

Russia threatened French planes in the Black Sea | France's defence minister Lecornu slams Moscow

The Eiffel Tower, one of the world's top tourist attractions, was closed Monday (Feb 19) after staff went on strike, unions told AFP.

The strike, which was called to protest over the way the monument is managed financially, could be extended, they said.

The tower's operator, SETE, said on its website that "visits of the monument will be disrupted on Monday".

It advised ticket holders to check its website before showing up, or to postpone their visit. E-ticket holders were asked to check their e-mails for further information.

The stoppage is the second strike at the Eiffel Tower within two months for the same reason.

Unions have criticised operator SETE for its business model that they say is based on an inflated estimate of future visitor numbers, while under-estimating construction costs.

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The Eiffel Tower -- Paris's most famous landmark -- attracts nearly seven million visitors a year, around three-quarters of them foreigners, according to its website.

During the Covid pandemic numbers dropped sharply due to closures and travel restrictions, but recovered to 5.9 million in 2022.

Watch:&nbsp;Paris witnesses more protests, sheep, dairy farmers hit streets asking for compensation

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Visitor numbers to Paris are expected to swell this summer as the French capital hosts the Olympic Games.

In a joint statement, the CGT and FO unions called on the city of Paris "to be reasonable with their financial demands to ensure the survival of the monument and the company operating it". 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The Eiffel Tower, one of the world's top tourist attractions, was closed Monday (Feb 19) after staff went on strike, unions told AFP. The strike, which was called to protest over the way the monument is managed financially, could be extended, they said.

The Eiffel Tower, one of the world's top tourist attractions, was closed Monday (Feb 19) after staff went on strike, unions told AFP. The strike, which was called to protest over the way the monument is managed financially, could be extended, they said. The tower's operator, SETE, said on its website that "visits of the monument will be disrupted on Monday". It advised ticket holders to check its website before showing up, or to postpone their visit. E-ticket holders were asked to check their e-mails for further information. The stoppage is the second strike at the Eiffel Tower within two months for the same reason. Unions have criticised operator SETE for its business model that they say is based on an inflated estimate of future visitor numbers, while under-estimating construction costs. Also read: France cleaver attack: Paris police shoot dead Sudan-born man The Eiffel Tower -- Paris's most famous landmark -- attracts nearly seven million visitors a year, around three-quarters of them foreigners, according to its website. During the Covid pandemic numbers dropped sharply due to closures and travel restrictions, but recovered to 5.9 million in 2022. Watch: Paris witnesses more protests, sheep, dairy farmers hit streets asking for compensation × Visitor numbers to Paris are expected to swell this summer as the French capital hosts the Olympic Games. In a joint statement, the CGT and FO unions called on the city of Paris "to be reasonable with their financial demands to ensure the survival of the monument and the company operating it". (With inputs from agencies)

Paris's Eiffel Tower faces closure over staff strike

Paris police shot dead a man who threatened them early Saturday with a meat cleaver, prosecutors said, adding that they opened fire after using a Taser.

The man was born in 1984 in Sudan and had no criminal record, they said, adding that two investigations had been launched over the man's action and the police response.

He was wearing an Arab-style robe and brandished a meat cleaver and carried a notebook with Arabic writing at a tram stop in eastern Paris.

When police arrived on the scene, the man refused to drop the cleaver and proceeded towards the police, prosecutors said.

According to first reports, four police officers fired their pistols a total of about 20 times, they said, adding that none of the police on the scene were injured.

The four who opened fire had been taken to hospital in a state of "shock", the prosecutors said.

Paris police shot dead a man who threatened them early Saturday with a meat cleaver, prosecutors said, adding that they opened fire after using a Taser. The man was born in 1984 in Sudan and had no criminal record, they said, adding that two investigations had been launched over the man's action and the police response.

Paris police shot dead a man who threatened them early Saturday with a meat cleaver, prosecutors said, adding that they opened fire after using a Taser. The man was born in 1984 in Sudan and had no criminal record, they said, adding that two investigations had been launched over the man's action and the police response. He was wearing an Arab-style robe and brandished a meat cleaver and carried a notebook with Arabic writing at a tram stop in eastern Paris. When police arrived on the scene, the man refused to drop the cleaver and proceeded towards the police, prosecutors said. According to first reports, four police officers fired their pistols a total of about 20 times, they said, adding that none of the police on the scene were injured. The four who opened fire had been taken to hospital in a state of "shock", the prosecutors said.

France cleaver attack: Paris police shoot dead Sudan-born man

As the world gears up for Valentine's Day it's not just lovers and friends preparing for the day the demand for heart-shaped cakes and chocolates that's surged leading to Pâtisserie in Paris working around the clock. Watch to know more!

Celebrating Valentines Day | Chocolates hearts & lovers' delight

French President&nbsp;Emmanuel&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;has intervened in a row over the removal of booksellers from the banks of the river Seine for the Paris Olympics, ruling that they should stay at their historic locations, his office said on Tuesday.

Hundreds of booksellers, who operate from little dark green boxes by the river, were set to be temporarily removed ahead of the Olympics opening ceremony on the Seine on July 26.

The head of the Cultural Association of Booksellers of Paris had likened their relocation to a "tooth extraction" and the organisation announced last month that it would launch legal efforts to stop the process.

Macron&nbsp;"has asked the interior minister and the Paris prefect's office that all of the booksellers are preserved and that none of them are forced to move," a statement from the president's office said.

The decision came after "no consensual and reassuring solution" could be found with the traders, who have been a feature of Parisian life for some 150 years.

Already struggling to bounce back from shutdowns during the Covid pandemic and a longer-run loss of interest from locals, the booksellers are desperate to profit from the arrival of an estimated 16 million tourists during the Games.

The sporting extravaganza is set to begin with national teams sailing down a 6.0-kilometre (four-mile) stretch of the Seine on more than 100 boats -- the first time the traditional opening ceremony has been held outside of the main stadium.

The city's police, overseen by the government-appointed prefect, had ordered the removal of around 600 of the 900 book kiosks over security concerns amid fears that they could be used to conceal explosive devices.

The format of the open-air ceremony is a huge challenge for security forces who will need to protect competitors, VIPs and spectators in a vast area of the capital at a time of heightened concern about terror attacks.&nbsp;

Moving the booksellers was also seen as a way of increasing the space for spectators on the banks of the river where around 300,000 ticketed fans are set to watch the show.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl/news-explained-how-patrick-mahomes-is-becoming-one-of-the-greatest-quarterbacks-in-nfl-690016">Explained: How Patrick Mahomes is becoming one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL</a>

<h2>Don't leave!</h2>

The intervention from&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;reflects concern about the impact on public opinion of removing a fixture of Parisian life, as well as growing criticism of the disruption to everyday life caused by the Games.

Advance warnings about security and transport restrictions have led many locals to plan holidays during the July 26-August 11 Olympics, sometimes in order to rent out their homes for high prices to foreign visitors.

Other complaints centre on the construction work that snares traffic daily around the capital, while resentment lingers over the handling of ticket sales last year that saw many Parisians priced out.

"Don't leave this summer, don't leave! That would be a mistake," mayor Anne Hidalgo urged the city's inhabitants on Sunday as she inaugurated the only new permanent Olympics sports arena to be built in inner Paris.&nbsp;

"It's going to be incredible," she said.

Surveys suggest a large majority of French people back the Olympics, with a poll in November indicating that 65 percent of respondents were in favour.

Most of the sporting and transport infrastructure existed before the Games, part of Paris' pitch for a relatively low-budget event that organisers say will be 50 percent less polluting than previous editions measured by CO2 emissions.

The Olympics will be followed by the Paralympics from August 28-September 8.

French President Emmanuel Macron has intervened in a row over the removal of booksellers from the banks of the river Seine for the Paris Olympics, ruling that they should stay at their historic locations, his office said on Tuesday.

French President Emmanuel Macron has intervened in a row over the removal of booksellers from the banks of the river Seine for the Paris Olympics, ruling that they should stay at their historic locations, his office said on Tuesday. Hundreds of booksellers, who operate from little dark green boxes by the river, were set to be temporarily removed ahead of the Olympics opening ceremony on the Seine on July 26. The head of the Cultural Association of Booksellers of Paris had likened their relocation to a "tooth extraction" and the organisation announced last month that it would launch legal efforts to stop the process. Macron "has asked the interior minister and the Paris prefect's office that all of the booksellers are preserved and that none of them are forced to move," a statement from the president's office said. The decision came after "no consensual and reassuring solution" could be found with the traders, who have been a feature of Parisian life for some 150 years. Already struggling to bounce back from shutdowns during the Covid pandemic and a longer-run loss of interest from locals, the booksellers are desperate to profit from the arrival of an estimated 16 million tourists during the Games. The sporting extravaganza is set to begin with national teams sailing down a 6.0-kilometre (four-mile) stretch of the Seine on more than 100 boats -- the first time the traditional opening ceremony has been held outside of the main stadium. The city's police, overseen by the government-appointed prefect, had ordered the removal of around 600 of the 900 book kiosks over security concerns amid fears that they could be used to conceal explosive devices. The format of the open-air ceremony is a huge challenge for security forces who will need to protect competitors, VIPs and spectators in a vast area of the capital at a time of heightened concern about terror attacks. Moving the booksellers was also seen as a way of increasing the space for spectators on the banks of the river where around 300,000 ticketed fans are set to watch the show. ALSO READ | Explained: How Patrick Mahomes is becoming one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL Don't leave! The intervention from Macron reflects concern about the impact on public opinion of removing a fixture of Parisian life, as well as growing criticism of the disruption to everyday life caused by the Games. Advance warnings about security and transport restrictions have led many locals to plan holidays during the July 26-August 11 Olympics, sometimes in order to rent out their homes for high prices to foreign visitors. Other complaints centre on the construction work that snares traffic daily around the capital, while resentment lingers over the handling of ticket sales last year that saw many Parisians priced out. "Don't leave this summer, don't leave! That would be a mistake," mayor Anne Hidalgo urged the city's inhabitants on Sunday as she inaugurated the only new permanent Olympics sports arena to be built in inner Paris. "It's going to be incredible," she said. Surveys suggest a large majority of French people back the Olympics, with a poll in November indicating that 65 percent of respondents were in favour. Most of the sporting and transport infrastructure existed before the Games, part of Paris' pitch for a relatively low-budget event that organisers say will be 50 percent less polluting than previous editions measured by CO2 emissions. The Olympics will be followed by the Paralympics from August 28-September 8.

Paris Olympics: French President Emmanuel Macron rules booksellers should stay on the banks of river Seine

On 29th of January long lines of tractors blocked highways near Paris farmer Union staged Nationwide protest to express their anger over Emanuel macron's Administration. Just this month the French government offered over $400 million for Farmers grievances. The French Farmers have lifted their roadblocks from streets but there are others who claim to have been forgotten by the government, sheep, dairy farmers hit streets asking for compensation. Watch to know more!

France: Dairy farmers protest near National Assembly

Global warming has breached the mark of 1.5C across a period of 12 months for the first time on record, making 2023 hotter than the pre-industrial era, said Europe's climate monitor on Thursday (Feb 8).

As climate change, heightened by the naturally occurring El Nino phenomenon, triggered severe storms, droughts and fire across the world, planet Earth saw record warming in the year 2023, making it the hottest in nearly 100,000 years.&nbsp;

The severe temperatures have continued into 2024, said the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) service, substantiating that February 2023 to January 2024 witnessed warming of 1.52 degrees Celsius, which was above the 19th-century benchmark.

Scientists, dubbing this a "warning to humanity", said that the current situation was a trailer of the Paris climate deal's critical 1.5C warming threshold. However, they said that this does not indicate a permanent breach of the limit, which is measured over decades.

"We are touching 1.5C and we see the cost, the social costs and economic costs," said Johan Rockstrom, of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research.&nbsp;

"1.5 is a very big number and it hurts us really badly in terms of heat waves, droughts, floods, reinforced storms, water scarcity across the entire world. That is what 2023 has taught us."&nbsp;

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<h2>'Warning to humanity'</h2>

In recent months, Earth has endured an onslaught of severe temperatures, which include a devastating drought engulfing the Amazon basin, extreme winter temperatures in parts of southern Europe, deadly wildfires in South America and record rainfall in California.

"It is clearly a warning to humanity that we are moving faster than expected towards the agreed upon 1.5C limit that we signed," Rockstrom told news agency AFP, adding that temperatures will likely fall back somewhat after the El Nino comes to an end.&nbsp;

Copernicus had earlier said that January this year had witnessed record-high temperatures on record. It was the eighth month in a row of historic high monthly temperatures with temperatures 1.66C warmer overall than an estimate of the January average for 1850-1900, the pre-industrial reference period.&nbsp;

"2024 starts with another record-breaking month -- not only is it the warmest January on record but we have also just experienced a 12-month period of more than 1.5C above the pre-industrial reference period," said Samantha Burgess, C3S Deputy Director.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Global warming has breached the mark of 1.5C across a period of 12 months for the first time on record, making 2023 hotter than the pre-industrial era, said Europe's climate monitor on Thursday (Feb 8).

Global warming has breached the mark of 1.5C across a period of 12 months for the first time on record, making 2023 hotter than the pre-industrial era, said Europe's climate monitor on Thursday (Feb 8). As climate change, heightened by the naturally occurring El Nino phenomenon, triggered severe storms, droughts and fire across the world, planet Earth saw record warming in the year 2023, making it the hottest in nearly 100,000 years. The severe temperatures have continued into 2024, said the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) service, substantiating that February 2023 to January 2024 witnessed warming of 1.52 degrees Celsius, which was above the 19th-century benchmark. Scientists, dubbing this a "warning to humanity", said that the current situation was a trailer of the Paris climate deal's critical 1.5C warming threshold. However, they said that this does not indicate a permanent breach of the limit, which is measured over decades. "We are touching 1.5C and we see the cost, the social costs and economic costs," said Johan Rockstrom, of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research. "1.5 is a very big number and it hurts us really badly in terms of heat waves, droughts, floods, reinforced storms, water scarcity across the entire world. That is what 2023 has taught us." Also read: Joe Biden gets ridiculed online after struggling to recall Hamas' name during speech 'Warning to humanity' In recent months, Earth has endured an onslaught of severe temperatures, which include a devastating drought engulfing the Amazon basin, extreme winter temperatures in parts of southern Europe, deadly wildfires in South America and record rainfall in California. "It is clearly a warning to humanity that we are moving faster than expected towards the agreed upon 1.5C limit that we signed," Rockstrom told news agency AFP, adding that temperatures will likely fall back somewhat after the El Nino comes to an end. Copernicus had earlier said that January this year had witnessed record-high temperatures on record. It was the eighth month in a row of historic high monthly temperatures with temperatures 1.66C warmer overall than an estimate of the January average for 1850-1900, the pre-industrial reference period. "2024 starts with another record-breaking month -- not only is it the warmest January on record but we have also just experienced a 12-month period of more than 1.5C above the pre-industrial reference period," said Samantha Burgess, C3S Deputy Director. (With inputs from agencies)

Earth witnesses first year-long breach of crucial 1.5C warming limit

Parisians have voted in favour of tripling parking costs for SUVs, as the city aims to tackle air pollution and a looming climate crisis. In a closely-watched referendum, over 54 percent voted for special parking fees for heavy, large and polluting sports utility vehicles. Watch to know more!

Paris triples parking costs for SUVs to tackle air pollution

Parisians are casting their votes in a crucial referendum this Sunday (Feb 4), deciding whether the city should implement a hefty parking surcharge on large SUVs or not. This initiative is part of Paris's ongoing commitment to transforming into a fully bikeable city. The proposed increase in parking fees for cars weighing 1.6 tonnes is 18 euros ($19.4) per hour in the city centre. While the charge for outer districts is 12 euros.

Paris votes in referendum on raising parking fees for SUVs

Parisians are casting their votes in a crucial referendum this&nbsp;Sunday (Feb 4), deciding whether the city should implement a hefty parking surcharge on large SUVs or not.&nbsp;This initiative is part of Paris's ongoing commitment to transforming into a fully bikeable city. The proposed increase in parking fees for cars weighing 1.6 tonnes is 18 euros ($19.4) per hour in the city centre. While&nbsp;the charge for&nbsp;outer districts is 12 euros.

The primary goal is to discourage the use of what they term "bulky, polluting" cars, with the new tariff also extending to electric cars weighing 2 tonnes and more.

The 40 millions d'automobilistes, a French association working for the interests of motorists, filed a petition saying that drivers should have freedom to choose their preferred vehicles.

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While emphasising&nbsp;the city's determination to prioritise eco-friendly transportation options, the deputy mayor of Paris Emmanuel Gregoire said, "Heavier, more dangerous, more polluting... SUVs are an environmental disaster."&nbsp;

Notably, last year, in a highly contested referendum held on April 2, Parisians voiced their opinion on prohibiting rental electric scooters within the city limits. The majority, with 89 percent of voters supporting the proposed ban, outweighed the 11 percent who opposed it. Despite the clear stance, voter turnout was notably low, with only 7 percent of the 1.3 million eligible voters participating in the referendum, media reports said.&nbsp;

<h2>71 pc surge in bikes&nbsp;</h2>

Under the leadership of Socialist Mayor Anne Hidalgo, Paris has witnessed a dramatic transformation with 84 km of cycle lanes added since 2020. There has been a remarkable 71 per cent surge in bike usage between the end of COVID-19 lockdowns and 2023.

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SUVs are increasingly popular in France but they are facing criticism as a threat to environmental sustainability as the world continues to witness devastating impacts of climate change.&nbsp;

Watch | Chile Wildfire: At least 46 killed in wildfires, government declares state of emergency

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40 millions d'automobilistes said, "We must firmly oppose these attacks on freedom pursued under false green pretexts."

"If we don't stop it now, this unjustified rebellion led by an ultra-urban and anti-car minority will spread like gangrene to other cities," the group added.&nbsp;

The outcome of this referendum will undoubtedly shape the future of transportation policies not just in Paris but also in cities across the world.

(With inputs from agencies)

Parisians are casting their votes in a crucial referendum this Sunday (Feb 4), deciding whether the city should implement a hefty parking surcharge on large SUVs or not.

Parisians are casting their votes in a crucial referendum this Sunday (Feb 4), deciding whether the city should implement a hefty parking surcharge on large SUVs or not. This initiative is part of Paris's ongoing commitment to transforming into a fully bikeable city. The proposed increase in parking fees for cars weighing 1.6 tonnes is 18 euros ($19.4) per hour in the city centre. While the charge for outer districts is 12 euros. The primary goal is to discourage the use of what they term "bulky, polluting" cars, with the new tariff also extending to electric cars weighing 2 tonnes and more. The 40 millions d'automobilistes, a French association working for the interests of motorists, filed a petition saying that drivers should have freedom to choose their preferred vehicles. Also Read | Former Trump aide Mike Gill succumbs to injuries, days after being shot While emphasising the city's determination to prioritise eco-friendly transportation options, the deputy mayor of Paris Emmanuel Gregoire said, "Heavier, more dangerous, more polluting... SUVs are an environmental disaster." Notably, last year, in a highly contested referendum held on April 2, Parisians voiced their opinion on prohibiting rental electric scooters within the city limits. The majority, with 89 percent of voters supporting the proposed ban, outweighed the 11 percent who opposed it. Despite the clear stance, voter turnout was notably low, with only 7 percent of the 1.3 million eligible voters participating in the referendum, media reports said. 71 pc surge in bikes Under the leadership of Socialist Mayor Anne Hidalgo, Paris has witnessed a dramatic transformation with 84 km of cycle lanes added since 2020. There has been a remarkable 71 per cent surge in bike usage between the end of COVID-19 lockdowns and 2023. WATCH | Dramatic rainfall submerges Karachi's major roads, rescue ops underway SUVs are increasingly popular in France but they are facing criticism as a threat to environmental sustainability as the world continues to witness devastating impacts of climate change. Watch | Chile Wildfire: At least 46 killed in wildfires, government declares state of emergency × 40 millions d'automobilistes said, "We must firmly oppose these attacks on freedom pursued under false green pretexts." "If we don't stop it now, this unjustified rebellion led by an ultra-urban and anti-car minority will spread like gangrene to other cities," the group added. The outcome of this referendum will undoubtedly shape the future of transportation policies not just in Paris but also in cities across the world. (With inputs from agencies)

Paris votes to hike SUV parking fees. This is the WHOPPING charges to be paid

French authorities say the crisis due to the farmers protest is now over. Farmers are removing roadblocks after the government to ease regulations. Watch to know more!

France: Farmer protests called off after French government announces concessions

Three people were injured in a knife attack at a major railway station in Paris on Saturday (Feb 3). According to a report by the news agency AFP, the attack took place at the Gare de Lyon railway station. The attack occurred at 8 am local time leaving one person with serious injuries while two others were mildly&nbsp;wounded.&nbsp;

The police said that the suspected attacker was arrested, and the motives behind the crime were unclear.

"The suspect did not cry out (any religious slogans) during his attack. He presented the police with an Italian driving licence," a police source told AFP. The man's nationality was not immediately known.

The Gare de Lyon railway station serves domestic trains as well as those heading to Switzerland and Italy. In a post on X, &nbsp;rail operator SNCF said that the area between halls one and three at the station was temporarily inaccessible.

<h2>Police survey scene of attack</h2>

The French police said&nbsp;that the forensic police surveyed the scene of the knife attack.&nbsp;

"As of now, there is no element that indicates that this could be a terrorist attack, but once again in this kind of cases, we should always be careful since investigations by police are underway. There will be investigations on his phone records, on his life in Italy, as well as statements he will make during his hearing. Then we'll see if the terrorist lead is definitely dismissed or not," Laurant Nunez, a Paris police prefect, told Reuters.

"The individual was found in possession of a certain number of documents. I can't say any more, the court will give out a statement. But there are documents that lead us to think that this individual came from Italy, he had an Italian residency permit, so he is in a regular situation in Italy since 2016," Nunez added.

"This individual seemingly suffers from mental troubles. On this, the court will have the chance to give a statement on this, but this is something that was spontaneously said to the investigators, and we have found a certain amount of medications that confirms that he was in treatment," the official further said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Three people were injured in a knife attack at a major railway station in Paris on Saturday (Feb 3). According to a report by the news agency AFP, the attack took place at the Gare de Lyon railway station.

Three people were injured in a knife attack at a major railway station in Paris on Saturday (Feb 3). According to a report by the news agency AFP, the attack took place at the Gare de Lyon railway station. The attack occurred at 8 am local time leaving one person with serious injuries while two others were mildly wounded. The police said that the suspected attacker was arrested, and the motives behind the crime were unclear. "The suspect did not cry out (any religious slogans) during his attack. He presented the police with an Italian driving licence," a police source told AFP. The man's nationality was not immediately known. The Gare de Lyon railway station serves domestic trains as well as those heading to Switzerland and Italy. In a post on X, rail operator SNCF said that the area between halls one and three at the station was temporarily inaccessible. Police survey scene of attack The French police said that the forensic police surveyed the scene of the knife attack. "As of now, there is no element that indicates that this could be a terrorist attack, but once again in this kind of cases, we should always be careful since investigations by police are underway. There will be investigations on his phone records, on his life in Italy, as well as statements he will make during his hearing. Then we'll see if the terrorist lead is definitely dismissed or not," Laurant Nunez, a Paris police prefect, told Reuters. "The individual was found in possession of a certain number of documents. I can't say any more, the court will give out a statement. But there are documents that lead us to think that this individual came from Italy, he had an Italian residency permit, so he is in a regular situation in Italy since 2016," Nunez added. "This individual seemingly suffers from mental troubles. On this, the court will have the chance to give a statement on this, but this is something that was spontaneously said to the investigators, and we have found a certain amount of medications that confirms that he was in treatment," the official further said. (With inputs from agencies)

Three injured in knife attack at major railway station in Paris, suspect arrested

Farmers in France on Tuesday (Jan 30) continued blocking major highways to Paris for the second consecutive day, intensifying pressure on the government to address a range of grievances including better working conditions, higher pay and less red tape.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Gabriel Attal, who is facing one of the biggest crisis in the country after being named by President Emmanuel Macron earlier this month, while addressing parliament said his government stood ready to resolve the crisis and praised the agriculture sector as "our force and our pride".

Agriculture embodied the "values of work, freedom and entrepreneurship", Attal said. "It is one of the foundations of our identity and our traditions."

In an apparent reference to contested EU rules, he said: "France must be granted an exception for its agriculture."

<h2>'We did a lot in the last years to help,' says Macron</h2>

President Emmanuel Macron, during his visit to Sweden, said that he was opposed to the trade deal between the European Union and South American bloc Mercosur, which is one of the major flashpoints listed by farmers.

However, he said that it was "too easy" to blame all the farmers' woes on the EU.&nbsp;

"We did a lot in the last years to help," he said.&nbsp;

Macron said authorities would "try to simplify the rules" to help farmers and vowed to show "flexibility" on certain regulations.&nbsp;

The French farmers have now been staging demonstrations for over a week causing traffic disruptions.

The country, on Tuesday morning, witnessed 40 kilometres (25 miles) &nbsp;of traffic jams around the area circulating Paris, according to monitoring site Sytadin.

First, the farmers blocked the A13 highway to the west of the capital, then they moved to the A4 to the east and the A6 on which hundreds of tractors rolled towards Paris from the south.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-splash-soup-on-glass-protected-mona-lisa-in-paris-684508">Protesters splash soup at iconic Mona Lisa painting at Louvre Museum in Paris</a>

<h2>'Your agricultural system is sick,'&nbsp;Mona Lisa soup stunt followed by farmers' protest</h2>

Meanwhile, two activists splashed soup on the bullet-proof glass safeguarding Leonardo da Vinci's iconic painting "Mona Lisa" in Paris on Sunday (Jan 28) amid the protests demanding the right to "healthy and sustainable food"

The two women, on Sunday morning, hurled the orange and red soup onto the clear casing protecting the famous artwork displayed at the Louvre Museum in France's capital city causing a commotion.

The unprecedented act resulted in gasps from the crowd, who were undoubtedly shocked and surprised by the sudden turn of events.

WATCH | French farmers vow to 'siege' Paris amid demand for better pay

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&nbsp;

"What is more important? Art or the right to healthy and sustainable food," the activists asked, standing in front of the painting and speaking in turn.

"Your agricultural system is sick. Our farmers are dying at work," they said before security staff evacuated the room.

The responsibility for the unprecedented stunt was taken by a group named Riposte Alimentaire ("Food counterattack").

They said that the stunt marked the "start of a campaign of civil resistance with the clear demand... of the social security of sustainable food".

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-farmers-block-highways-amid-protests-against-government-thousands-of-police-deployed-684896">French farmers block highways amid protests against government, thousands of cops deployed&nbsp;</a>

<h2>Why are the farmers protesting?</h2>

France is the European Union's biggest agricultural producer and the farmers there are staging protests over excessive regulation on environmental protection and have raised concerns regarding the salaries being paid to them which aren't enough.

Their concerns also include competition from cheaper imports and food price negotiations.

Notably, competition from cheaper imports and environmental rules are issues shared by producers across the European Union, whereas issues such as food price negotiations are more specific to France.

<h2>High costs</h2>

Farmers claim that several producers are not being able to cover high costs for energy, fertiliser and transport because of the government's push to cut down on food inflation.

The French government's plan to discontinue a tax break on diesel fuel, designated for farmers, is also one of the major concerns raised.

<h2>Imports</h2>

Large imports from Ukraine, for which the EU has waived quotas and levies since Russia's invasion, renewed negotiations to clinch a trade pact between the EU and South American group Mercosur, have unfolded discontentment around unfair competition in sugar, grain and meat.

The imports are disliked for driving down European prices while failing to meet environmental requirements placed on farmers within the EU.

<h2>Environment</h2>

Farmers object to French implementation of EU policy, which they perceive to be unduly complex, as well as EU subsidy regulations, which include a new mandate to keep 4% of farmland fallow, such as the restoration of hedges.

In light of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, green measures are perceived as at odds with the desire to increase food and other necessary goods self-sufficiency.

Concerns over chemicals and animal welfare, together with disagreements over irrigation projects, have made older French farmers feel more alienated from society.

<h2>What has the government done so far?</h2>

On January 26, Prime Minister Gabriel Attal declared that farmers will no longer have to pay higher diesel taxes. In addition, he also outlined measures to cut red tape and extended assistance, particularly to southern farmers who were impacted by the cow disease.

The administration is facing immense pressure to dissolve the situation by coming to a conclusive decision ahead of the annual Paris farm show, which is scheduled in the month of February, and the European elections due in June.&nbsp;

The initial announcements by the government have ignited mixed reactions from the public with farmers' union calling for the demonstrations to continue.

The government, so far, has maintained a tolerant stance towards the demonstrations and has vowed to come up with further measures within days.

Reportedly, support for the producers of wine that were hit by plummeting consumption is also being taken into consideration, as well as measures for livestock are also expected.

Apart from France, farmers have also been staging demonstrations in Germany, Belgium, Poland, Romania and the Netherlands.

(With inputs from agencies)

Farmers in France on Tuesday (Jan 30) continued blocking major highways to Paris for the second consecutive day, intensifying pressure on the government to address a range of grievances including better working conditions, higher pay and less red tape.

Farmers in France on Tuesday (Jan 30) continued blocking major highways to Paris for the second consecutive day, intensifying pressure on the government to address a range of grievances including better working conditions, higher pay and less red tape. Prime Minister Gabriel Attal, who is facing one of the biggest crisis in the country after being named by President Emmanuel Macron earlier this month, while addressing parliament said his government stood ready to resolve the crisis and praised the agriculture sector as "our force and our pride". Agriculture embodied the "values of work, freedom and entrepreneurship", Attal said. "It is one of the foundations of our identity and our traditions." In an apparent reference to contested EU rules, he said: "France must be granted an exception for its agriculture." 'We did a lot in the last years to help,' says Macron President Emmanuel Macron, during his visit to Sweden, said that he was opposed to the trade deal between the European Union and South American bloc Mercosur, which is one of the major flashpoints listed by farmers. However, he said that it was "too easy" to blame all the farmers' woes on the EU. "We did a lot in the last years to help," he said. Macron said authorities would "try to simplify the rules" to help farmers and vowed to show "flexibility" on certain regulations. The French farmers have now been staging demonstrations for over a week causing traffic disruptions. The country, on Tuesday morning, witnessed 40 kilometres (25 miles) of traffic jams around the area circulating Paris, according to monitoring site Sytadin. First, the farmers blocked the A13 highway to the west of the capital, then they moved to the A4 to the east and the A6 on which hundreds of tractors rolled towards Paris from the south. Also read: Protesters splash soup at iconic Mona Lisa painting at Louvre Museum in Paris 'Your agricultural system is sick,' Mona Lisa soup stunt followed by farmers' protest Meanwhile, two activists splashed soup on the bullet-proof glass safeguarding Leonardo da Vinci's iconic painting "Mona Lisa" in Paris on Sunday (Jan 28) amid the protests demanding the right to "healthy and sustainable food" The two women, on Sunday morning, hurled the orange and red soup onto the clear casing protecting the famous artwork displayed at the Louvre Museum in France's capital city causing a commotion. The unprecedented act resulted in gasps from the crowd, who were undoubtedly shocked and surprised by the sudden turn of events. WATCH | French farmers vow to 'siege' Paris amid demand for better pay × "What is more important? Art or the right to healthy and sustainable food," the activists asked, standing in front of the painting and speaking in turn. "Your agricultural system is sick. Our farmers are dying at work," they said before security staff evacuated the room. The responsibility for the unprecedented stunt was taken by a group named Riposte Alimentaire ("Food counterattack"). They said that the stunt marked the "start of a campaign of civil resistance with the clear demand... of the social security of sustainable food". Also read: French farmers block highways amid protests against government, thousands of cops deployed Why are the farmers protesting? France is the European Union's biggest agricultural producer and the farmers there are staging protests over excessive regulation on environmental protection and have raised concerns regarding the salaries being paid to them which aren't enough. Their concerns also include competition from cheaper imports and food price negotiations. Notably, competition from cheaper imports and environmental rules are issues shared by producers across the European Union, whereas issues such as food price negotiations are more specific to France. High costs Farmers claim that several producers are not being able to cover high costs for energy, fertiliser and transport because of the government's push to cut down on food inflation. The French government's plan to discontinue a tax break on diesel fuel, designated for farmers, is also one of the major concerns raised. Imports Large imports from Ukraine, for which the EU has waived quotas and levies since Russia's invasion, renewed negotiations to clinch a trade pact between the EU and South American group Mercosur, have unfolded discontentment around unfair competition in sugar, grain and meat. The imports are disliked for driving down European prices while failing to meet environmental requirements placed on farmers within the EU. Environment Farmers object to French implementation of EU policy, which they perceive to be unduly complex, as well as EU subsidy regulations, which include a new mandate to keep 4% of farmland fallow, such as the restoration of hedges. In light of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, green measures are perceived as at odds with the desire to increase food and other necessary goods self-sufficiency. Concerns over chemicals and animal welfare, together with disagreements over irrigation projects, have made older French farmers feel more alienated from society. What has the government done so far? On January 26, Prime Minister Gabriel Attal declared that farmers will no longer have to pay higher diesel taxes. In addition, he also outlined measures to cut red tape and extended assistance, particularly to southern farmers who were impacted by the cow disease. The administration is facing immense pressure to dissolve the situation by coming to a conclusive decision ahead of the annual Paris farm show, which is scheduled in the month of February, and the European elections due in June. The initial announcements by the government have ignited mixed reactions from the public with farmers' union calling for the demonstrations to continue. The government, so far, has maintained a tolerant stance towards the demonstrations and has vowed to come up with further measures within days. Reportedly, support for the producers of wine that were hit by plummeting consumption is also being taken into consideration, as well as measures for livestock are also expected. Apart from France, farmers have also been staging demonstrations in Germany, Belgium, Poland, Romania and the Netherlands. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Why are farmers protesting in France?

French farmers determined as Paris highway blockades reach 2nd day. Farmers block local tax centre with pile of tyres. Dutch farmers park tractors and trailers close to EU parliament. French farmers continue to choke roads leading into Paris. Watch to know more!

French farmers choke roads leading into Paris | Dutch farmers protest close to EU Parliament

French farmers have started blocking all major highways leading to Paris. Why are the farmers protesting? What is the French government doing to appease the farmers?

European farmers protests: Agrarian protests spread across Europe | French farmers blcok Paris

Climate change activists threw pumpkin soup at the Mona Lisa painting in Paris, it did no harm to the world famous painting because of the protective glass. However, activists claim the move is to highlight climate issues.

France: Activists hurl soup at 'Mona Lisa' painting, justify move to highlight climate issues

Top officials from the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), Egypt, Qatar, and Israel convened in Paris on Sunday (Jan 28) in a concerted effort to broker a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, news agency&nbsp;AFP reported citing sources close to the negotiations.

French authorities actively engaged with representatives in the talks have been aiming to facilitate a cessation of hostilities between Israel and the militant group Hamas in the blockaded Palestinian enclave.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-chief-breaks-down-describing-hellish-gaza-conditions-684125">WHO chief breaks down describing 'hellish' Gaza conditions</a>

Last week, a security source cited by the AFP disclosed that William Burns, the head of the CIA, was scheduled to meet counterparts from Israel and Egypt, along with Qatar's prime minister.

The development aligned with a previous report in The Washington Post indicating President Joe Biden's deployment of Burns to negotiate the release of remaining Hamas-held Israeli hostages in exchange for a ceasefire.

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war | UN role in Gaza under spotlight

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The New York Times reported on Saturday (Jan 27) that an emerging draft agreement, focusing on a two-month suspension of Israel's military operations in Gaza, would be deliberated upon during the Paris talks on Sunday.

US President Biden, involved in the diplomatic efforts, had discussions with Qatar's emir on Friday regarding the hostage situation. The White House clarified that while talks were ongoing, "imminent developments" were not expected.

Qatar played a pivotal role in the negotiations, having previously brokered a hostage release deal in November.&nbsp;

Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, killing about 1,200 people, mostly civilians. The militants also seized around 250 hostages, with Israel reporting that about 132 remain in Gaza, including the bodies of at least 28 deceased captives.

The ensuing Israeli military offensive, in response to the attacks, has led to an unprecedented humanitarian crisis with at least 26,422 killed in Gaza, as per the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory.&nbsp; 
 
The negotiations in Paris signify a critical step towards a potential ceasefire and resolution of the ongoing conflict.

(With inputs from agencies)

Top officials from the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), Egypt, Qatar, and Israel convened in Paris on Sunday (Jan 28) in a concerted effort to broker a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, news agency AFP reported citing sources close to the negotiations.

Top officials from the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), Egypt, Qatar, and Israel convened in Paris on Sunday (Jan 28) in a concerted effort to broker a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, news agency AFP reported citing sources close to the negotiations. French authorities actively engaged with representatives in the talks have been aiming to facilitate a cessation of hostilities between Israel and the militant group Hamas in the blockaded Palestinian enclave. Also read | WHO chief breaks down describing 'hellish' Gaza conditions Last week, a security source cited by the AFP disclosed that William Burns, the head of the CIA, was scheduled to meet counterparts from Israel and Egypt, along with Qatar's prime minister. The development aligned with a previous report in The Washington Post indicating President Joe Biden's deployment of Burns to negotiate the release of remaining Hamas-held Israeli hostages in exchange for a ceasefire. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war | UN role in Gaza under spotlight × The New York Times reported on Saturday (Jan 27) that an emerging draft agreement, focusing on a two-month suspension of Israel's military operations in Gaza, would be deliberated upon during the Paris talks on Sunday. US President Biden, involved in the diplomatic efforts, had discussions with Qatar's emir on Friday regarding the hostage situation. The White House clarified that while talks were ongoing, "imminent developments" were not expected. Qatar played a pivotal role in the negotiations, having previously brokered a hostage release deal in November. Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, killing about 1,200 people, mostly civilians. The militants also seized around 250 hostages, with Israel reporting that about 132 remain in Gaza, including the bodies of at least 28 deceased captives. The ensuing Israeli military offensive, in response to the attacks, has led to an unprecedented humanitarian crisis with at least 26,422 killed in Gaza, as per the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory. The negotiations in Paris signify a critical step towards a potential ceasefire and resolution of the ongoing conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Focus on Paris talks to broker two-month ceasefire in Gaza

Two protesters from a climate and agricultural NGO hurled soup onto the Leonardo da Vinci's "Mona Lisa" painting in Paris. Watch in.

Climate activists hurl soup at the 'Mona Lisa' painting in Paris

Farmers in France are protesting for better pay and living conditions and have vowed to 'siege' Paris as part of their protest. Watch the report for more details!

French farmers vow to 'siege' Paris amid demand for better pay

In a synthesis of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/president-macrons-visit-a-synthesis-of-symbolism-and-substance-684332">symbolism and substance</a>,&nbsp;French President Emmanuel Macron's Republic Day visit to New Delhi&nbsp;followed that of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to Paris, on July 14, 2023 — the French National Day.&nbsp;For the two leaders to be the Guests of Honour at the successive National days respectively, "is unprecedented and a high point in the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the declaration of the Strategic Partnership between the two countries," India's Ministry of External Affairs said in an <a href="https://www.mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/37534/India__France_Joint_Statement_on_the_State_Visit_of_HE_Mr_Emmanuel_Macron_President_of_French_Republic_to_India_25__26_January_2024">official</a> readout.&nbsp;

Since the signing of their strategic partnership in 1998, and whose 25th anniversary was celebrated in 2023, New Delhi and Paris&nbsp;have developed intense bilateral military cooperation.&nbsp;

This proximity is explained in particular by a shared vision of the issues in the Indo-Pacific. In a region that has become the new epicentre of commercial, diplomatic, and military relations on the planet, the two nations want to work to stabilise and secure this strategic area.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas | Trade, defence &amp; business: Decoding the agenda of Macron's India visit

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But the top highlight of Macron's India visit was the agreement between New Delhi and Paris to&nbsp;intensify their cooperation in the Southwest Indian Ocean, building on the joint surveillance missions carried out from the French island territory of La Reunion in 2020 and 2022.

"They also welcomed the extension of those interactions in India’s maritime neighbourhood. These interactions may contribute positively to the securitization of strategic sea lanes of communication," the Indian readout said.&nbsp;

New Delhi and Paris also&nbsp;recalled the launch of the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC) forged on the margins of the G20 Summit in Delhi in September 2023.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/delhi-g20-modi-biden-mbs-launch-inter-continent-economic-corridor-to-outfox-chinas-bri-634176">G20 Delhi summit: Why India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor is a 'real big deal'</a>

French President Macron congratulated Prime Minister Modi for his leadership in this historic initiative.

The two leaders agreed that this project would be of great strategic importance and would significantly enhance the potential and resilience of the flow of commerce and energy between India, Middle East and Europe.

India's Prime Minister Modi welcomed the appointment of President Macron’s Special Envoy for the project.&nbsp;

In a synthesis of symbolism and substance, French President Emmanuel Macron's Republic Day visit to New Delhi followed that of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to Paris, on July 14, 2023 — the French National Day.

In a synthesis of symbolism and substance, French President Emmanuel Macron's Republic Day visit to New Delhi followed that of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to Paris, on July 14, 2023 — the French National Day. For the two leaders to be the Guests of Honour at the successive National days respectively, "is unprecedented and a high point in the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the declaration of the Strategic Partnership between the two countries," India's Ministry of External Affairs said in an official readout. Since the signing of their strategic partnership in 1998, and whose 25th anniversary was celebrated in 2023, New Delhi and Paris have developed intense bilateral military cooperation. This proximity is explained in particular by a shared vision of the issues in the Indo-Pacific. In a region that has become the new epicentre of commercial, diplomatic, and military relations on the planet, the two nations want to work to stabilise and secure this strategic area. Also watch | Gravitas | Trade, defence & business: Decoding the agenda of Macron's India visit × But the top highlight of Macron's India visit was the agreement between New Delhi and Paris to intensify their cooperation in the Southwest Indian Ocean, building on the joint surveillance missions carried out from the French island territory of La Reunion in 2020 and 2022. "They also welcomed the extension of those interactions in India’s maritime neighbourhood. These interactions may contribute positively to the securitization of strategic sea lanes of communication," the Indian readout said. New Delhi and Paris also recalled the launch of the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC) forged on the margins of the G20 Summit in Delhi in September 2023. Also read | G20 Delhi summit: Why India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor is a 'real big deal' French President Macron congratulated Prime Minister Modi for his leadership in this historic initiative. The two leaders agreed that this project would be of great strategic importance and would significantly enhance the potential and resilience of the flow of commerce and energy between India, Middle East and Europe. India's Prime Minister Modi welcomed the appointment of President Macron’s Special Envoy for the project.

The Capitals: Paris, New Delhi's 'strategic' march goes beyond Indo-Pacific

In a shocking development, two activists splashed soup on the bullet-proof glass safeguarding Leonardo da Vinci's iconic painting "Mona Lisa" in Paris on Sunday (Jan 28).

The protesters did so demanding the right to "healthy and sustainable food", reported news agency AFP.

The two women, on Sunday morning, hurled the orange and red soup onto the clear casing protecting the famous artwork displayed at the Louvre Museum in France's capital city causing a commotion.

The unprecedented act resulted in gasps from the crowd, who were undoubtedly shocked and surprised by the sudden turn of events.

"What is more important? Art or the right to healthy and sustainable food," the activists asked, standing in front of the painting and speaking in turn.

"Your agricultural system is sick. Our farmers are dying at work," they said before security staff evacuated the room.

A police source, as per AFP reports, said that both the activists have been detained.

The Louvre Museum released a statement saying that the protesters had hidden the pumpkin soup in a coffee thermos.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/danger-looms-on-rishi-sunak-as-crafty-tories-plot-to-throw-him-out-of-downing-street-report-684595">Danger looms on Rishi Sunak as crafty Tories plot to throw him out of Downing Street: Report</a>

It further added that the iconic artwork remained unharmed and that the room housing the masterpiece had re-opened to the public after being closed for nearly an hour.

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Par leur action non violente, Sasha (24ans) et Marie-Juliette (63ans) exigent la mise en place d'une Sécurité Sociale de l'Alimentation Durable. [2] 
 
👉<a href="https://t.co/FLzMmVW4tW">https://t.co/FLzMmVW4tW</a><a href="https://twitter.com/SocialeAlim?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SocialeAlim</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SSAD?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SSAD</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Alimentation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Alimentation</a> <a href="https://t.co/i4YS6VrrRX">pic.twitter.com/i4YS6VrrRX</a>
— Riposte Alimentaire (@riposte_alim) <a href="https://twitter.com/riposte_alim/status/1751554609720471872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

<h2>Riposte Alimentaire claims responsibility&nbsp;</h2>

The responsibility for the unexpected act was taken by a group named Riposte Alimentaire ("Food counterattack").

They said that the stunt marked the "start of a campaign of civil resistance with the clear demand... of the social security of sustainable food".

Member of the group, Till Van Elst claimed that they wanted the state to provide people food items at reduced rates through a specialised social security card.&nbsp;

Under the scheme, democratic assemblies would choose the food to be subsidised.

"We want citizens to really be able to... decide what is in their plates," he told AFP.

<h2>Culture Minister Rachida Dati denounces act</h2>

Dati, denouncing the act, stated, "The Mona Lisa, as our heritage, belongs to future generations. No cause can justify targeting it," she wrote on X.

This also comes amid the ongoing farmer protests in France who have been staging demonstrations demanding better pay, taxes and regulations.

Prime Minister Gabriel Attal on Sunday announced new measures after some farmers threatened to block roads in the capital city on Monday.

It is the latest attack on the masterpiece in the French capital's Louvre museum after someone threw a custard pie at it in May 2022, but its thick glass casing ensured it came to no harm.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a shocking development, two activists splashed soup on the bullet-proof glass safeguarding Leonardo da Vinci's iconic painting "Mona Lisa" in Paris on Sunday (Jan 28).

In a shocking development, two activists splashed soup on the bullet-proof glass safeguarding Leonardo da Vinci's iconic painting "Mona Lisa" in Paris on Sunday (Jan 28). The protesters did so demanding the right to "healthy and sustainable food", reported news agency AFP. The two women, on Sunday morning, hurled the orange and red soup onto the clear casing protecting the famous artwork displayed at the Louvre Museum in France's capital city causing a commotion. The unprecedented act resulted in gasps from the crowd, who were undoubtedly shocked and surprised by the sudden turn of events. "What is more important? Art or the right to healthy and sustainable food," the activists asked, standing in front of the painting and speaking in turn. "Your agricultural system is sick. Our farmers are dying at work," they said before security staff evacuated the room. A police source, as per AFP reports, said that both the activists have been detained. The Louvre Museum released a statement saying that the protesters had hidden the pumpkin soup in a coffee thermos. Also read: Danger looms on Rishi Sunak as crafty Tories plot to throw him out of Downing Street: Report It further added that the iconic artwork remained unharmed and that the room housing the masterpiece had re-opened to the public after being closed for nearly an hour. Par leur action non violente, Sasha (24ans) et Marie-Juliette (63ans) exigent la mise en place d'une Sécurité Sociale de l'Alimentation Durable. [2] 👉https://t.co/FLzMmVW4tW@SocialeAlim #SSAD #Alimentation pic.twitter.com/i4YS6VrrRX — Riposte Alimentaire (@riposte_alim) January 28, 2024 × Riposte Alimentaire claims responsibility The responsibility for the unexpected act was taken by a group named Riposte Alimentaire ("Food counterattack"). They said that the stunt marked the "start of a campaign of civil resistance with the clear demand... of the social security of sustainable food". Member of the group, Till Van Elst claimed that they wanted the state to provide people food items at reduced rates through a specialised social security card. Under the scheme, democratic assemblies would choose the food to be subsidised. "We want citizens to really be able to... decide what is in their plates," he told AFP. Culture Minister Rachida Dati denounces act Dati, denouncing the act, stated, "The Mona Lisa, as our heritage, belongs to future generations. No cause can justify targeting it," she wrote on X. This also comes amid the ongoing farmer protests in France who have been staging demonstrations demanding better pay, taxes and regulations. Prime Minister Gabriel Attal on Sunday announced new measures after some farmers threatened to block roads in the capital city on Monday. It is the latest attack on the masterpiece in the French capital's Louvre museum after someone threw a custard pie at it in May 2022, but its thick glass casing ensured it came to no harm. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | Protesters splash soup at iconic Mona Lisa painting at Louvre Museum in Paris

The farmers are protesting about low food prices and excessive bureaucracy and this is happening not in a third-world nation this is happening in France. The French Farmers have blocked one of the main motorways linking Paris with Belgium.

Paris Farmers' Union plans 11 roadblocks on main roads

Pharrell Williams kicked off Paris Fashion Week 2024 with Louis Vuitton’s spring menswear show on Tuesday night, lining the catwalk with sharp, elaborately embellished American West outfits.

Paris Fashion week 2024: Louis Vuitton's menswear collection kicks off the event

France on Friday (Jan 12) said that it has placed an order for 42 new Rafale fighter jets and its very first batch would be delivered in the year 2027.

The order for the latest version of the Dassault planes, which is worth five-billion-euro ($5.5 billion), would offer "modernised operational capabilities" to the French air force, said Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu.

The Rafale is a "multi-role" fighter that can be used to hunt enemy planes, hit ground and sea targets, conduct surveillance and also carry&nbsp;nuclear warheads.

The announcement made on Friday is the very first significant purchase made under France's 413-billion-euro military procurement plan for 2024-30.

Last year, a hike of 40 per cent over the previous seven-year period was passed by the parliament in the month of July.

Watch |&nbsp;France's new government announced with only one major change in foreign ministry

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&nbsp;

"I want France to continue to have armed forces that set the standard for Europe," President Emmanuel Macron said at the time.

Lecornu said the order would support "more than 7,000 jobs in more than 400 companies" in France.

Dassault chief executive Eric Trappier released a statement saying that Rafale was an example of "military-industrial sovereignty" that made France an "exception in Europe".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/arrested-terror-plot-suspects-have-links-with-hamas-denmark-police-679435">Arrested terror plot suspects have links with Hamas: Denmark police</a>

The order comes as France is setting up a programme with Germany and Spain to develop a future jet fighter, the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), which is expected to replace the Rafale in 2040.

<h2>Indonesia orders&nbsp;Rafale fighter jets</h2>

The Indonesian government signed a contract to purchase 18 more Rafale fighter jets from France, the Defence Ministry said in a&nbsp;statement released on Tuesday (Jan 9), reported the&nbsp;Jakarta Post.

Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto on Monday signed a contract for the last batch of 18 Rafale, said the ministry.

The first delivery of the jets is expected in early 2026.

“The arrival of the Rafale fighter-jets along with their weapons and support equipment is expected to significantly increase the strength and readiness of the Indonesian Air Force in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty in the air,” the ministry&nbsp;spokesman, Brig. Gen. Edwin Adrian Sumantha said in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

France on Friday (Jan 12) said that it has placed an order for 42 new Rafale fighter jets and its very first batch would be delivered in the year 2027. The order for the latest version of the Dassault planes, which is worth five-billion-euro ($5.

France on Friday (Jan 12) said that it has placed an order for 42 new Rafale fighter jets and its very first batch would be delivered in the year 2027. The order for the latest version of the Dassault planes, which is worth five-billion-euro ($5.5 billion), would offer "modernised operational capabilities" to the French air force, said Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu. The Rafale is a "multi-role" fighter that can be used to hunt enemy planes, hit ground and sea targets, conduct surveillance and also carry nuclear warheads. The announcement made on Friday is the very first significant purchase made under France's 413-billion-euro military procurement plan for 2024-30. Last year, a hike of 40 per cent over the previous seven-year period was passed by the parliament in the month of July. Watch | France's new government announced with only one major change in foreign ministry × "I want France to continue to have armed forces that set the standard for Europe," President Emmanuel Macron said at the time. Lecornu said the order would support "more than 7,000 jobs in more than 400 companies" in France. Dassault chief executive Eric Trappier released a statement saying that Rafale was an example of "military-industrial sovereignty" that made France an "exception in Europe". Also read: Arrested terror plot suspects have links with Hamas: Denmark police The order comes as France is setting up a programme with Germany and Spain to develop a future jet fighter, the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), which is expected to replace the Rafale in 2040. Indonesia orders Rafale fighter jets The Indonesian government signed a contract to purchase 18 more Rafale fighter jets from France, the Defence Ministry said in a statement released on Tuesday (Jan 9), reported the Jakarta Post. Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto on Monday signed a contract for the last batch of 18 Rafale, said the ministry. The first delivery of the jets is expected in early 2026. “The arrival of the Rafale fighter-jets along with their weapons and support equipment is expected to significantly increase the strength and readiness of the Indonesian Air Force in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty in the air,” the ministry spokesman, Brig. Gen. Edwin Adrian Sumantha said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

France orders more Rafale fighter jets to 'modernise its operational capabilities'

400 Vehicles were left stranded on French motorways due to icy roads in Paris. Region Police had to close two express roads after snow and tumbling overnight temperatures led to travel chaos in the north of the country temperatures across the country are set to drop below 0°C this week.

Snow and ice cascade motorways in Paris

French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne resigned on Monday, as President Emmanuel Macron seeks to give a new impetus to his second mandate ahead of European parliament elections and the Paris Olympics this summer.

French President begins political reset, Macron aims to relaunch his government | World News | WION

Weeks after Paris' bedbug hysteria, stinging caterpillars are now making their way into the French capital. Experts claim that pine processionary caterpillars, so named because of their single-file flight pattern, have arrived three months earlier than the timing due to the exceptionally mild temperatures.

The insects, which can grow up to 4 cm (1.6 in) in length, live in colonies and construct silk nests on colonised pine and oak trees.&nbsp;

Parts of the city have reportedly been infested by these insects.

Although tthe caterpillars do not bite, their hair act as "microscopic needles or harpoons" that detach from their bodies when they feel threatened or sense danger and travel with the wind.

A toxic protein found in the hair can result in skin blisters and a range of allergic responses. The caterpillars and their hair can turn out to be extremely fatal for pets and toddlers who inadvertently can put these in their mouth.

In the year 2022, the government had declared processionary caterpillars as hazardous to human health.

As per local media reports, a homeowner in the northern department of Yveline was forced to chop off a 20-year-old pine tree after he discovered massive colonies nesting inside it. The tree was 15 metres tall.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-two-conmen-arrested-for-bedbug-scam-that-tricked-elderly-667602">France: Two conmen arrested for bedbug scam that tricked elderly</a>

“I couldn’t believe it,” Emmanuel told Le Parisien. “They came down from my pine despite the trap I set. They are devouring my tree and I am afraid for my dog.”

Pine processionary caterpillars undergo a dramatic transformation into chrysalis by burrowing themselves in the ground during their last larval stages as they descend along the stem.

“It’s an invasion,” Jean-Marc Pommier, the mayor of Bonnieres-sur-Seine, told Le Parisien. “People are calling the town hall. We have entire neighbourhoods affected, we see trees covered with these horrible garlands," he added.

The caterpillar invasion comes after a massive Paris bedbug scare made locals and tourists fearful about travelling through the city.

(With inputs from agencies)

Weeks after Paris' bedbug hysteria, stinging caterpillars are now making their way into the French capital. Experts claim that pine processionary caterpillars, so named because of their single-file flight pattern, have arrived three months earlier than the timing due to the exceptionally mild temperatures.

Weeks after Paris' bedbug hysteria, stinging caterpillars are now making their way into the French capital. Experts claim that pine processionary caterpillars, so named because of their single-file flight pattern, have arrived three months earlier than the timing due to the exceptionally mild temperatures. The insects, which can grow up to 4 cm (1.6 in) in length, live in colonies and construct silk nests on colonised pine and oak trees. Parts of the city have reportedly been infested by these insects. Although tthe caterpillars do not bite, their hair act as "microscopic needles or harpoons" that detach from their bodies when they feel threatened or sense danger and travel with the wind. A toxic protein found in the hair can result in skin blisters and a range of allergic responses. The caterpillars and their hair can turn out to be extremely fatal for pets and toddlers who inadvertently can put these in their mouth. In the year 2022, the government had declared processionary caterpillars as hazardous to human health. As per local media reports, a homeowner in the northern department of Yveline was forced to chop off a 20-year-old pine tree after he discovered massive colonies nesting inside it. The tree was 15 metres tall. Also read: France: Two conmen arrested for bedbug scam that tricked elderly “I couldn’t believe it,” Emmanuel told Le Parisien. “They came down from my pine despite the trap I set. They are devouring my tree and I am afraid for my dog.” Pine processionary caterpillars undergo a dramatic transformation into chrysalis by burrowing themselves in the ground during their last larval stages as they descend along the stem. “It’s an invasion,” Jean-Marc Pommier, the mayor of Bonnieres-sur-Seine, told Le Parisien. “People are calling the town hall. We have entire neighbourhoods affected, we see trees covered with these horrible garlands," he added. The caterpillar invasion comes after a massive Paris bedbug scare made locals and tourists fearful about travelling through the city. (With inputs from agencies)

Weeks after Paris' bedbug hysteria, stinging caterpillars now invade French capital

Photographs seize moments in a way that it brings back all the memories when you look back at them, but some photographs remain forever etched in history. The famous photograph of The Kiss by the Hotel de Ville in Paris, clicked by Robert Doisneau is one such photograph that will never grow old.&nbsp;

Francoise Bornet, who was captured by the French photographer Dosineau in the photograph, recently passed away at the age of 93 but remains forever immortalised as a young lover in the picture.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-harvard-professor-claims-innocent-relationship-with-epstein-indulged-in-sex-with-minors-676488">Ex-Harvard professor named in court papers claims 'innocent relationship' with Epstein</a>

The famous photo was clicked in the 20th century, in postwar times, outside a hotel in Paris where two young lovers were seen in each other’s embrace kissing passionately. This photograph later became the romantic symbol of love in Paris.

<h2>Forever young lover in Doisneau’s Paris kiss photograph dies at 93</h2>

At the time when this photograph was clicked, Bornet was a 20-year-old drama student who was simply enjoying the days of young romance in Paris with her then-boyfriend Jacques Carteaud. Doisneau spotted the couple in a cafe and was already on a mission to capture a series of photos illustrating love in Paris for the American magazine Life.
<img alt="Kiss in Paris" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73856380-a660-406e-835a-1a4e53f117bb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-01-04T170204.523.png" />
Bornet later told French TV, “He said, ‘I’m Robert Doisneau, I find you both charming and wondered if you would accept to kiss again in front of my camera.’” They took several photos with him in different loications of Paris.

Last year, Bornet, living in Normandy told La Dépêche d’Évreux: “I was with my boyfriend. We couldn’t stop kissing. We were kissing all over the place, all the time. Robert Doisneau was in the bar, he asked us to pose for him.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-case-files-heres-what-papers-revealed-about-clinton-prince-andrew-hawking-and-others-676534">Epstein case files: Here's what papers revealed about Clinton, Prince Andrew, Hawking and others</a>

Doisneau was all open about having the photo being staged rather than clicked like a random one. He was lauded for his ability to compose and capture a scene so expressively. He died in 1994.

When the photo was published in Life magazine, it didn't catch much attention. But it had a revival in the 1980s when it was transformed into posters and postcards capturing the romance of Paris, followed by a frenzy of merchandise from duvet covers to shower curtains, calendars and mugs.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/is-sheikh-hasina-using-father-mujibur-rahman-to-keep-her-grip-over-bangladesh-politics-676540">Is Sheikh Hasina using father Mujibur Rahman to keep her grip over Bangladesh politics?</a>

By the time the photo became popular, Bornet married another man after separating from Carteaud and also married him later. In 2005, she sold a copy of the original photo given to her by Doisneau, which was bought at auction and fetched the then very high sum of more than €150,000 ($164,244).

(With inputs from agencies)

Photographs seize moments in a way that it brings back all the memories when you look back at them, but some photographs remain forever etched in history. The famous photograph of The Kiss by the Hotel de Ville in Paris, clicked by Robert Doisneau is one such photograph that will never grow old.

Photographs seize moments in a way that it brings back all the memories when you look back at them, but some photographs remain forever etched in history. The famous photograph of The Kiss by the Hotel de Ville in Paris, clicked by Robert Doisneau is one such photograph that will never grow old. Francoise Bornet, who was captured by the French photographer Dosineau in the photograph, recently passed away at the age of 93 but remains forever immortalised as a young lover in the picture. Also Read | Ex-Harvard professor named in court papers claims 'innocent relationship' with Epstein The famous photo was clicked in the 20th century, in postwar times, outside a hotel in Paris where two young lovers were seen in each other’s embrace kissing passionately. This photograph later became the romantic symbol of love in Paris. Forever young lover in Doisneau’s Paris kiss photograph dies at 93 At the time when this photograph was clicked, Bornet was a 20-year-old drama student who was simply enjoying the days of young romance in Paris with her then-boyfriend Jacques Carteaud. Doisneau spotted the couple in a cafe and was already on a mission to capture a series of photos illustrating love in Paris for the American magazine Life. Bornet later told French TV, “He said, ‘I’m Robert Doisneau, I find you both charming and wondered if you would accept to kiss again in front of my camera.’” They took several photos with him in different loications of Paris. Last year, Bornet, living in Normandy told La Dépêche d’Évreux: “I was with my boyfriend. We couldn’t stop kissing. We were kissing all over the place, all the time. Robert Doisneau was in the bar, he asked us to pose for him.” Also Read | Epstein case files: Here's what papers revealed about Clinton, Prince Andrew, Hawking and others Doisneau was all open about having the photo being staged rather than clicked like a random one. He was lauded for his ability to compose and capture a scene so expressively. He died in 1994. When the photo was published in Life magazine, it didn't catch much attention. But it had a revival in the 1980s when it was transformed into posters and postcards capturing the romance of Paris, followed by a frenzy of merchandise from duvet covers to shower curtains, calendars and mugs. Also Read | Is Sheikh Hasina using father Mujibur Rahman to keep her grip over Bangladesh politics? By the time the photo became popular, Bornet married another man after separating from Carteaud and also married him later. In 2005, she sold a copy of the original photo given to her by Doisneau, which was bought at auction and fetched the then very high sum of more than €150,000 ($164,244). (With inputs from agencies)

Francoise Bornet, young woman in Robert Doisneau’s famous Paris kiss photograph, dies at 93

As many as 66 people on board the&nbsp;Nicaragua-bound plane that was sent back to India on "human trafficking" concerns were reportedly from the western state of Gujarat. Initial investigation by the&nbsp;state Crime Investigation Department (CID) has found that these 66 had agreed to pay anywhere between Rs 60-80 lakh ($72,000-$96,000) to immigration agents to cross into the US illegally.&nbsp;

“In order to migrate illegally to the US, they had agreed to pay between Rs 60 lakh to 80 lakh (in total) to the local agents,” the CID stated, adding that passengers paid an advance of up to Rs 8 lakh ($9,600), including the ticket fees to the agents.&nbsp;

The state CID said it has the information of 15 agents, who had promised to facilitate the alleged illegal immigration and that it will soon question them.&nbsp;CID says the majority of the passengers from Gujarat had only studied till the 8th or maximum 12th standard.&nbsp;

To expand its probe, Gujarat CID has written to&nbsp;the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and sought details from Dubai authorities on the agency that chartered the flight&nbsp;as well as on the financial transactions to secure visas from the UAE.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/first-visuals-of-passengers-of-plane-grounded-in-france-returns-with-276-indian-passengers-673559">Watch | First visuals of passengers of plane grounded in France; returns with 276 indian passengers</a>

<iframe allow="accelerometer; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" data-gtm-yt-inspected-7="true" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="lazy" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/first-visuals-of-passengers-of-plane-grounded-in-france-returns-with-276-indian-passengers-673559/embed?autoplay=0" title="live tv" width="100%"></iframe>

<h2>What happened with the plane and passengers?</h2>

On December 21, 303 Indian passengers boarded a Legend Airlines' A340 flight operated by Romanian company Legend Airlines in Dubai. The plane had stopped in Vatry, France for refuelling, where, based on a tip-off that the plane was carrying suspected victims of trafficking - it&nbsp;was grounded for four days.

After being interrogated by the French authorities, the plane landed in Mumbai on December 26, albeit with 276 passengers. The rest applied for asylum and were transferred to a special zone in Paris' Charles de Gaulle airport for asylum-seekers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/plane-held-in-france-with-303-indian-passengers-onboard-departs-for-mumbai-673434">Plane with Indians grounded in France lands in Mumbai, only 276 passengers return</a>

Among the passengers who stayed in France were five minors, who have now been taken into the care of child welfare services.

Notably, passengers of the chartered plane had arrived in UAE at different times and each of them had legal tourist visas for entering Dubai. However, they all congregated at the same place and left for Nicaragua together before the flight was cut short in France.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

As many as 66 people on board the Nicaragua-bound plane that was sent back to India on "human trafficking" concerns were reportedly from the western state of Gujarat.

As many as 66 people on board the Nicaragua-bound plane that was sent back to India on "human trafficking" concerns were reportedly from the western state of Gujarat. Initial investigation by the state Crime Investigation Department (CID) has found that these 66 had agreed to pay anywhere between Rs 60-80 lakh ($72,000-$96,000) to immigration agents to cross into the US illegally. “In order to migrate illegally to the US, they had agreed to pay between Rs 60 lakh to 80 lakh (in total) to the local agents,” the CID stated, adding that passengers paid an advance of up to Rs 8 lakh ($9,600), including the ticket fees to the agents. The state CID said it has the information of 15 agents, who had promised to facilitate the alleged illegal immigration and that it will soon question them. CID says the majority of the passengers from Gujarat had only studied till the 8th or maximum 12th standard. To expand its probe, Gujarat CID has written to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and sought details from Dubai authorities on the agency that chartered the flight as well as on the financial transactions to secure visas from the UAE. Watch | First visuals of passengers of plane grounded in France; returns with 276 indian passengers What happened with the plane and passengers? On December 21, 303 Indian passengers boarded a Legend Airlines' A340 flight operated by Romanian company Legend Airlines in Dubai. The plane had stopped in Vatry, France for refuelling, where, based on a tip-off that the plane was carrying suspected victims of trafficking - it was grounded for four days. After being interrogated by the French authorities, the plane landed in Mumbai on December 26, albeit with 276 passengers. The rest applied for asylum and were transferred to a special zone in Paris' Charles de Gaulle airport for asylum-seekers. Also read | Plane with Indians grounded in France lands in Mumbai, only 276 passengers return Among the passengers who stayed in France were five minors, who have now been taken into the care of child welfare services. Notably, passengers of the chartered plane had arrived in UAE at different times and each of them had legal tourist visas for entering Dubai. However, they all congregated at the same place and left for Nicaragua together before the flight was cut short in France. (With inputs from agencies)

Passengers on France 'human trafficking' plane paid nearly $100K for illegal US entry

As the world is set to ring in 2024, countries are ramping up security measures in order to ensure safe celebrations amid heightened terror threats linked to the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

France will deploy close to 90,000 police officers across the country, with 6,000 of them in Paris alone, for the weekend's New Year's celebrations due to the 'very high' terrorist threat.

"I have called for an extremely high turnout of police and security forces given the context of the very high terrorist threat due to, clearly, what is happening in Israel and in Palestine," Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said&nbsp;on Friday (Dec 29).

He further added that for the very first time, the police officers would be permitted to make use of the drones as a part of the security efforts and that tens of thousands of firefighters would also be deployed along with 5,000 soldiers.

<h2>Germany: Authorities bar sightseeing visits to Cologne's iconic cathedral</h2>

German authorities banned sightseeing visits to Cologne's iconic cathedral during Christmas celebrations last and worshippers had to undergo security checks amid growing fears of attack.

Police said that they were taking stern measures to safeguard the iconic cathedral during New Year's celebrations.

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The precautionary security efforts are being made to prevent any possible attacks said officer in charge Martin Lotz.

"Even if the reference was to New Year's Eve, there are a lot of people in the area around the cathedral, today is Christmas Eve midnight Mass, it is one of the most visited cathedrals, and the main train station is nearby," said police spokesperson Wolfgang Baldes, as per Associated Press report.

“There are a lot of people, and that's why we said that if there was an indication, we would do everything necessary to protect people.”

Meanwhile, in Austria, the security was heightened around&nbsp;churches and Christmas markets in&nbsp;Vienna.

<h2>Authorities tighten security around Times Square, US</h2>

The FBI is setting up efforts to secure Times Square for visitors who are expected to attend the New Year's Eve celebrations.&nbsp;

Police officials will set up a perimeter from Sixth Avenue to Eighth and from 41st Street to 57th, as per CBS reports.

The New York City Police Department is also preparing for demonstrations near the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting in November.

"There's a protest every day in New York City, so there's certainly going to be a protest on New Year's Eve," said NYPD Intelligence Division Commanding Officer John Hart.

"Those who want to peacefully protest, have the right to do so. But you're not going to do it at the expense of disrupting those who are coming here to peacefully bring in the new year," Mayor Eric Adams said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

As the world is set to ring in 2024, countries are ramping up security measures in order to ensure safe celebrations amid heightened terror threats linked to the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

As the world is set to ring in 2024, countries are ramping up security measures in order to ensure safe celebrations amid heightened terror threats linked to the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. France will deploy close to 90,000 police officers across the country, with 6,000 of them in Paris alone, for the weekend's New Year's celebrations due to the 'very high' terrorist threat. "I have called for an extremely high turnout of police and security forces given the context of the very high terrorist threat due to, clearly, what is happening in Israel and in Palestine," Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said on Friday (Dec 29). He further added that for the very first time, the police officers would be permitted to make use of the drones as a part of the security efforts and that tens of thousands of firefighters would also be deployed along with 5,000 soldiers. Germany: Authorities bar sightseeing visits to Cologne's iconic cathedral German authorities banned sightseeing visits to Cologne's iconic cathedral during Christmas celebrations last and worshippers had to undergo security checks amid growing fears of attack. Police said that they were taking stern measures to safeguard the iconic cathedral during New Year's celebrations. Also read: Ukrainian strike kills at least 14 in city of Belgorod, says Russia The precautionary security efforts are being made to prevent any possible attacks said officer in charge Martin Lotz. "Even if the reference was to New Year's Eve, there are a lot of people in the area around the cathedral, today is Christmas Eve midnight Mass, it is one of the most visited cathedrals, and the main train station is nearby," said police spokesperson Wolfgang Baldes, as per Associated Press report. “There are a lot of people, and that's why we said that if there was an indication, we would do everything necessary to protect people.” Meanwhile, in Austria, the security was heightened around churches and Christmas markets in Vienna. Authorities tighten security around Times Square, US The FBI is setting up efforts to secure Times Square for visitors who are expected to attend the New Year's Eve celebrations. Police officials will set up a perimeter from Sixth Avenue to Eighth and from 41st Street to 57th, as per CBS reports. The New York City Police Department is also preparing for demonstrations near the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting in November. "There's a protest every day in New York City, so there's certainly going to be a protest on New Year's Eve," said NYPD Intelligence Division Commanding Officer John Hart. "Those who want to peacefully protest, have the right to do so. But you're not going to do it at the expense of disrupting those who are coming here to peacefully bring in the new year," Mayor Eric Adams said. (With inputs from agencies)

Global terror alert: Cities ramp up security measures for New Year celebrations amid 'high risk' of attacks

The Eiffel Tower was shut down to visitors on Wednesday because of a strike over contract negotiations, the day the Paris monument marks 100 years since the death of its creator, Gustave Eiffel.

Paris: Eiffel Tower shut as staff goes on strike over 'unsustainable' management

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