Taiwan holds military drill after China repeats threats

14 Sept 01:58 Key points summarised by AI

Taiwan conducted live-fire military drills in its southernmost county, Pingtung, shortly after Beijing concluded its largest-ever exercises around the island.
China's extensive military drills followed US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit, which Beijing condemned as a violation of its sovereignty, escalating tensions significantly.
Taiwan maintains its drills were pre-scheduled for artillery readiness and maintenance, not a direct response to China's war games, while remaining on high alert.
Beijing reiterated threats against Taiwan, stating it "will not renounce the use of force" and plans to continue military training and patrols despite ending its major drills.

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.