France extends curfew as COVID second wave surges in Europe

13 Sept 08:41 Key points summarised by AI

France expands its nightly curfew to cover two-thirds of its population (46 million people) as it faces a "very serious" second wave of COVID-19, reporting a record 41,622 new cases.
Across Europe, the pandemic intensifies, with Spain declaring its epidemic "out of control" after exceeding 1 million cases, and Germany recording over 10,000 daily infections for the first time.
European leaders implement and extend targeted restrictions, aiming to curb the virus's spread and prevent health systems from being overwhelmed, while striving to avoid economically damaging full lockdowns.
The escalating crisis is highlighted by high-profile cases, including Belgium's Foreign Minister being admitted to intensive care with COVID-19, as health services express apprehension about the coinciding seasonal illnesses.

Macron condemns those who 'sought to bring down the Republic' after rioting mars nationwide protests

19 Oct 12:56 Key points summarised by AI

President Macron condemned widespread rioting and looting during nationwide protests, blaming far-left activists and criminals for the "unrestrained violence" and vowing accountability for those who "sought to bring down the Republic."
Over 2,400 arrests were made as protests against rising living costs and poor school conditions escalated, causing extensive damage to public buildings and businesses in cities like Paris, Limoges (where City Hall burned), Marseille, and Lyon.
The unrest, which organizers hoped would revive the "yellow vest" movement, saw political leaders trade blame, with Macron instructing prefects to protect public buildings and potentially ban future protests to prevent further disorder.