EU ministers insist Russia sanctions working

13 Sept 13:53 Key points summarised by AI

European foreign ministers firmly assert that sanctions imposed on Russia for invading Ukraine are effective, despite concerns regarding the EU's own energy supplies.
EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell and other ministers strongly reject criticisms, notably from Hungary's Viktor Orban, that the sanctions harm Europe more than Russia, emphasizing the policy's necessity and the EU's credibility.
Ministers are committed to tightening existing sanctions by closing loopholes, exploring new measures like a gold embargo, and actively countering narratives that advocate for concessions to Russia.
The EU pledges continued economic, political, and military support for Ukraine, stressing the importance of maintaining sanctions in the face of Russian attempts to disrupt gas supplies and demoralize Europe.

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.