Biden, Putin to discuss Ukraine crisis in new call

22 Sept 06:53 Key points summarised by AI

US President Joe Biden and Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin will hold a new call to de-escalate tensions surrounding Russia's military build-up near Ukraine, following a previous warning from Biden about "severe consequences" for any invasion.
Biden will stress Washington's pursuit of a "diplomatic path" while reiterating preparedness to respond if Russia advances with a further invasion, expressing grave concern over the troop movements.
High-level US and Russian officials are slated to meet on January 10 in Geneva to discuss Russia's security proposals, including non-expansion of NATO, and address Western concerns, with Russia vowing a "hard line."
The US is coordinating closely with European allies and Ukraine, with Secretary of State Blinken affirming full US support for Ukraine and a consensus among allies to impose "massive consequences and severe costs" on Russia for any aggression.

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

Yesterday 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.