Trump signs pandemic aid and spending bill, averting government shutdown

13 Sept 15:42 Key points summarised by AI

President Trump signed a $2.3 trillion pandemic aid and spending package into law, restoring unemployment benefits for millions of Americans.
The signing averted a federal government shutdown, which would have begun on Tuesday, after Trump initially threatened to block the bill.
Trump had demanded Congress increase stimulus checks from $600 to $2,000 but ultimately backed down under intense pressure from lawmakers.
The package includes $892 billion in coronavirus relief and $1.4 trillion to fund government agencies, stabilizing the economy and government operations.

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.