China reports most COVID cases in five months as Hebei infections rise

13 Sept 07:33 Key points summarised by AI

China recorded its highest daily increase in COVID-19 cases in over five months, with 63 new infections, predominantly driven by a surge in Hebei province.
Hebei's capital, Shijiazhuang, implemented strict measures including mass testing, banning gatherings, and tightening travel restrictions, such as prohibiting passengers from its main railway station.
Other regions, like Dalian, also intensified travel curbs, while Guangdong province confirmed a case of the more transmissible South African variant, raising concerns about potential vaccine efficacy.

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.