Finland, Sweden sign to join NATO but need ratification

1 Oct 23:42 Key points summarised by AI

NATO's 30 allies signed accession protocols for Finland and Sweden, initiating a historic expansion of the alliance.
Full membership for both Nordic nations is contingent upon ratification by all national parliaments, a process that could take up to a year.
Turkey lifted its veto after securing pledges from Finland and Sweden to address its concerns regarding support for specific terrorist organizations.
During the ratification period, Finland and Sweden can participate in NATO meetings and access intelligence, but they are not yet protected by the alliance's collective defense clause.

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

Today 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.