Nuclear war? Russia's Lavrov says: I don't believe so

13 Sept 13:16 Key points summarised by AI

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov dismissed the likelihood of the Ukraine conflict escalating into nuclear war, while expressing concern over the West's persistent focus on the topic.
Lavrov asserted that Russia would pivot away from the West, vowing to end dependence on Western nations following the imposition of severe sanctions.
Despite facing its gravest economic crisis since 1991, Russian officials, including Lavrov and Putin, expressed confidence in overcoming sanctions by boosting domestic markets and strengthening independence.
Putin previously placed Russia's nuclear forces on high alert, citing Western sanctions and NATO's expansion as justifications for the 'special military operation' in Ukraine.

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.